Description
Juicy Pan-Seared Chicken with Cool Cucumber Yogurt Sauce
Tender, Flavorful, and Ready in 30 Minutes
Why You’ll Love It
Golden, perfectly seared chicken breasts paired with a cool, creamy cucumber yogurt sauce. Light but satisfying, protein-packed, and ready in half an hour—perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp paprika or oregano (optional)
For the Cucumber Yogurt Sauce:
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1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat for richness)
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½ cup finely diced cucumber (pat dry)
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or mint
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Salt, to taste
Instructions
1. Prep Chicken
Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and optional paprika/oregano. Let sit 10–15 minutes at room temperature for even cooking.
2. Pan-Sear
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and let rest 5 minutes.
3. Make Sauce
While chicken rests, combine yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs in a bowl. Season with salt to taste. Chill briefly while chicken rests.
4. Slice & Serve
Slice chicken against the grain. Spoon cucumber yogurt sauce over the top. Garnish with extra herbs if desired.
Serving Suggestions
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Low-carb: Serve over mixed greens or roasted vegetables
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Hearty: Pair with quinoa, lemon-herb rice, or orzo
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Fun: Serve with warm pita or naan for dipping
Flavor Twists
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Mediterranean Mezze: Swap chicken for shrimp or salmon
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Herb Garden: Add parsley, chives, or tarragon to the sauce
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to chicken or jalapeño to sauce
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Dairy-Free: Use thick coconut or almond yogurt
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Everything Bagel Chicken: Press chicken into Everything Bagel seasoning before searing
Notes
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Pat cucumbers dry to avoid watery sauce
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Use an instant-read thermometer for perfectly cooked chicken
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Let chicken rest to redistribute juices for maximum tenderness
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Make the sauce ahead; flavors improve after a short chill