Pan-Seared Chicken with Black Bean and Tomato Salsa

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

Tender pan-seared chicken breasts served with a vibrant black bean and tomato salsa inspired by Tex-Mex flavors. This latin american-inspired chicken (gluten free) ready in about 22 minutes blends olive oil, salt, black pepper 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 350 calories and feeds 2, 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: 10 min Cook: 12 min Serves 2 Latin American cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat dry 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts and season both sides with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Step 2: Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and sear without moving for 5-6 minutes until the edges are golden and crisp. Flip and cook another 5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is cooked through.
  3. Step 3: While the chicken cooks, combine 1 cup drained black beans, 1 cup quartered cherry tomatoes, 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, and 1/4 tsp garlic powder in a bowl. Stir gently until well mixed and flavors meld.
  4. Step 4: Remove chicken from the skillet and let rest for 3 minutes. Serve each breast topped with a generous scoop of the black bean and tomato salsa for a colorful, fresh contrast.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Chicken with Black Bean and Tomato Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 22 minutes (10 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 Black Bean and Tomato Salsa?

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 Black Bean and Tomato Salsa?

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 Black Bean and Tomato Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). 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.

Is Pan-Seared Chicken with Black Bean and Tomato Salsa gluten free?

Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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