Seared Chicken with Avocado Bean Twist

This seared chicken dish combines a succulent chicken breast with a creamy avocado and black bean twist, offering a balanced high-protein meal that’s bursting with fresh flavors.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 20 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Begin by preparing the chicken breast. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear and season it generously with salt and pepper. This drying step allows the surface to achieve a desirable golden-brown crust when seared, locking in juices for maximum flavor and tenderness.
2. 2.
   In a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron for even heating, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once glistening and shimmering but not smoking, carefully place the chicken breast into the pan. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming instead of searing. Let it sear uninterrupted for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Look for a crispy, golden-brown exterior as a visual cue.
3. 3.
   While the chicken is cooking, prepare the avocado bean dip. Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly to remove any canning liquid that might affect the flavor. Mash half of the avocado in a small bowl and combine with the beans. Stir in the juice of half a lime to add brightness and prevent the avocado from browning. Season with salt to taste.
4. 4.
   Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful upon slicing. Slice the chicken into strips against the grain for the most tender texture.
5. 5.
   Serve the seared chicken over the avocado and black bean mixture. Garnish with additional lime wedges if desired, and serve immediately for a fresh, hearty, high-protein meal.