Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Pour about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil into a large ovenproof or cast-iron pan and heat it over medium until shimmering.
Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels.
Season both sides of each chicken breast generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot pan and cook on one side for 5 minutes without moving to brown.
Flip the chicken breasts, then immediately transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 10–15 minutes until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C). About 13 minutes is typical.
Remove the pan from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving hot.
