1-First, prepare your ingredients by measuring the spices and patting the chicken dry for even cooking. This step helps the seasonings stick and prevents excess moisture from steaming the meat. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering and ready to sear.

2-Next, season the chicken breasts with the salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper, rubbing it in evenly. Place the chicken in the hot skillet and cook one side without moving it for about 5-6 minutes to get that golden crust. Flip it over, add any garlic if you’re varying the recipe, and cook for another 5 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

3-To keep things simple, use a meat thermometer to check doneness, just like we do with grilled meats. If you’re adapting for dietary needs, swap in tofu and reduce cook time to 3-4 minutes per side. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices, making it tender and flavorful.