Pan-Seared Chicken with Spicy Tomato Chutney

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

Tender pan-seared chicken breasts served with a vibrant and spicy tomato chutney that balances heat and sweetness. This indian-inspired chicken ready in about 30 minutes blends (6 oz each) chicken breast, 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: 20 min Serves 2 Indian cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat dry 2 chicken breasts (6 oz each) 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. Place chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken and keep warm.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 small finely chopped onion. Sauté over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
  3. Step 3: Add 3 diced fresh tomatoes, 1 tsp red chili flakes, 1 tbsp brown sugar, and 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar to the skillet. Simmer for 8-10 minutes until the tomato mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Spoon the spicy tomato chutney over the chicken breasts and serve immediately.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Chicken with Spicy Tomato Chutney 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 Spicy Tomato Chutney?

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 Spicy Tomato Chutney?

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 Spicy Tomato Chutney 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 Spicy Tomato Chutney?

Indian 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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