Pan-Seared Chicken with Smoky Red Pepper Sauce

By · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy chicken breasts pan-seared to golden perfection, served with a vibrant smoky red pepper sauce that balances sweetness and spice. This general-inspired chicken ready in about 30 minutes blends (6 oz each) chicken breasts, smoked paprika, 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 410 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: 20 min Serves 2 General cuisine 410 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat dry 2 chicken breasts (6 oz each) and season evenly with 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper on both sides.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F; then transfer to a plate and tent with foil.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 1 small finely chopped shallot and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
  4. Step 4: Add 1 large roasted and diced red bell pepper and 1/4 tsp smoked chili powder, stirring for 1 minute to combine.
  5. Step 5: Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen browned bits. Simmer for 4 minutes until slightly reduced.
  6. Step 6: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream and cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  7. Step 7: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over, and heat together for 1 minute.
  8. Step 8: Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Chicken with Smoky Red Pepper Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (10 min prep + 20 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 Smoky Red Pepper 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 Smoky Red Pepper 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 Smoky Red Pepper 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 Smoky Red Pepper Sauce?

General 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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