Pan-Seared Chicken with Charred Tomato and Basil Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy pan-seared chicken breasts served with a smoky charred tomato and fresh basil sauce that balances acidity and herbaceous notes. This mediterranean-inspired chicken (mediterranean) ready in about 30 minutes blends olive oil, medium roma tomatoes, minced garlic cloves 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 320 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: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 2 Mediterranean cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil. Season 2 chicken breasts with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, then sear for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken and rest.
  2. Step 2: While chicken cooks, char 4 roma tomatoes directly over a gas flame or under a broiler until blackened on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and let cool.
  3. Step 3: Once cooled, peel the charred skin off the tomatoes, then chop roughly and combine in a bowl with 3 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, 1/4 tsp red chili flakes, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 2 tbsp olive oil. Stir well to form a rustic sauce.
  4. Step 4: Serve the rested chicken breasts topped with the charred tomato basil sauce, drizzling any remaining sauce from the bowl over the chicken for extra flavor.

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Frequently asked questions

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

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 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 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 Charred Tomato and Basil 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 Charred Tomato and Basil Sauce 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 Sauce?

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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