Pan-Seared Chicken with Garlic Cumin Yogurt Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy chicken breasts pan-seared to golden perfection and served with a tangy garlic cumin-infused yogurt sauce. This mediterranean-inspired chicken (gluten free, high protein) ready in about 22 minutes blends ground cumin, paprika, kosher 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 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: 10 min Cook: 12 min Serves 2 Mediterranean cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat dry 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each). Season both sides evenly with 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, 3/4 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on the first side without moving, until golden brown.
  3. Step 3: Flip chicken and cook an additional 5 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear. Remove chicken and rest on a plate.
  4. Step 4: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, and 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro. Stir until smooth.
  5. Step 5: Slice chicken and serve with a dollop of the garlic cumin yogurt sauce on top.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Chicken with Garlic Cumin Yogurt Sauce 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 Garlic Cumin Yogurt 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 Garlic Cumin Yogurt 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 Garlic Cumin Yogurt 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.

Is Pan-Seared Chicken with Garlic Cumin Yogurt Sauce gluten free?

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

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