Pan-Seared Chicken with Avocado-Lime Cream Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy chicken breasts smothered in a creamy avocado sauce with zesty lime, creating a rich yet light keto-friendly meal. This keto ready in about 27 minutes blends chicken breasts, avocado, juice lime into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 410 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 12 min Serves 4 410 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat 16 oz boneless chicken breasts dry. Season with 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  3. Step 3: While chicken cooks, mash 1/2 avocado in a bowl. Stir in 2 tbsp heavy cream, 1 tbsp lime juice, and 1 minced garlic clove until smooth.
  4. Step 4: Slice chicken, spoon avocado sauce over top, and serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Chicken with Avocado-Lime Cream Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 27 minutes (15 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Chicken with Avocado-Lime Cream Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Seared Chicken with Avocado-Lime Cream Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pan-Seared Chicken with Avocado-Lime Cream Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What should I serve with Pan-Seared Chicken with Avocado-Lime Cream Sauce?

A simple grain (rice, quinoa, or crusty bread), a quick green salad, and a steamed or roasted vegetable round out the plate. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" above for dish-specific pairings based on what you have on hand.

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