Pan-Seared Chicken with Charred Tomato and Basil Salsa

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

Juicy pan-seared chicken breasts served with a vibrant charred tomato and basil salsa bursting with fresh flavors. This mediterranean-inspired chicken ready in about 25 minutes blends about 6 oz each chicken breasts, olive oil, salt 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: 15 min Serves 2 Mediterranean cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat dry 2 chicken breasts and season both sides with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken breasts and sear for 6 minutes on the first side without moving until golden and edges crisp, then flip and cook 5 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove and rest covered.
  2. Step 2: While chicken cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in another skillet over medium-high heat. Place 4 halved roma tomatoes cut-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes until skin chars and softens. Add 2 thinly sliced garlic cloves and stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Transfer tomatoes and garlic to a bowl. Add 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1/4 tsp red chili flakes. Stir to combine and season with salt to taste.
  4. Step 4: Slice the rested chicken breasts and serve topped with the charred tomato and basil salsa for a fresh, smoky contrast.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Chicken with Charred Tomato and Basil Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 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 Charred Tomato and Basil 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 Charred Tomato and Basil 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 Charred Tomato and Basil 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.

What goes well with Pan-Seared Chicken with Charred Tomato and Basil Salsa?

Mediterranean chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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