Moist Sauted Chicken Breasts

• 1 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon freshly chopped herbs (optional)
• Olive oil
• 1/2 tablespoon butter

1. 1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness with the handle or flat of a knife.
2. 2. Lightly salt and pepper the chicken breasts.
3. 3. Mix about a half teaspoon of salt in with the flour along with a little pepper. Chop the herbs finely, if using, and mix in as well.
4. 4. Quickly dredge the chicken breasts in the flour, so that they are just lightly dusted with flour.
5. 5. Heat the saute pan over medium-high heat. When it is quite hot, add the olive oil and butter. Let them melt, and swirl the pan.
6. 6. Turn the heat to medium. Add the chicken breasts. Cook for just about 1 minute to help them get a little golden on one side (you are not actually searing or browning them). Then flip each chicken breast over.
7. 7. Turn the heat to low. Put the lid on the pan. Set a timer for 9 minutes, and walk away. Do not lift the lid; do not peek.
8. 8. After 9 minutes have elapsed, turn off the heat. Reset the timer for 9 minutes and leave the chicken breasts in the pan. Again, do not lift the lid; do not peek.
9. 9. After the 9 minutes are up, take the lid off, and tada! Soft, tender, juicy chicken breasts that aren't dried out in the least. Doublecheck them to make sure there is no pink in the middle. If you want to be absolutely sure it is cooked, you can use an instant-read thermometer to check (the chicken should be at least 165u0b0F). Slice and eat.

chicken breasts, salt, flour, herbs, olive oil, butter

Taken from www.epicurious.com/recipes/member/views/moist-sauted-chicken-breasts-52874431 (may not work)