Blackened Chicken with Avocado Cream Sauce

Name: Blackened Chicken with Avocado Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup quinoa; ½ cup chopped scallions; 1 ½ teaspoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper; ½ teaspoon sea salt; 4 (4 ounce) skinless (boneless chicken breast halves); non-stick cooking spray; ½ avocado; ¼ cup plain non-fat Greek-style yogurt; 1 ½ teaspoons lemon juice; ½ teaspoon garlic powder

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Blackened Chicken with Avocado Cream Sauce

Are you looking for a delicious and healthy chicken recipe that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring the wonderful world of blackened chicken with avocado cream sauce. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!

What is Blackened Chicken?

Blackened chicken is a cooking technique that involves seasoning chicken with a blend of spices and then searing it in a hot skillet until the spices create a dark crust on the outside. This technique originated in Louisiana and is commonly associated with Cajun cuisine.

Why Choose Blackened Chicken?

Blackened chicken offers a unique and robust flavor profile that is hard to resist. The combination of spices, such as paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and thyme, gives the chicken a smoky and slightly spicy taste. The blackened crust adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.

Not only is blackened chicken delicious, but it is also a healthier alternative to fried chicken. By using a minimal amount of oil and focusing on the spice rub, you can enjoy a flavorful meal without the guilt.

How to Make Blackened Chicken?

To make blackened chicken, start by combining the spices in a bowl. Rub the spice mixture onto both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring an even coating. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the skillet is hot, place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165째F (74째C).

Remember, the key to achieving that perfect blackened crust is a hot skillet and a short cooking time. Don’t be afraid to let the spices sizzle and create a flavorful char.

What is Avocado Cream Sauce?

Avocado cream sauce is a creamy and tangy sauce made from ripe avocados, sour cream, lime juice, and various seasonings. It complements the blackened chicken perfectly, adding a cool and refreshing element to balance out the spice.

To make avocado cream sauce, simply combine all the ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Adjust the seasonings to your taste, adding more lime juice for acidity or salt for extra flavor.

How to Serve Blackened Chicken with Avocado Cream Sauce?

Once you have cooked your blackened chicken and prepared the avocado cream sauce, it’s time to put it all together. Serve the chicken on a plate and generously drizzle the avocado cream sauce on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped scallions for an added burst of freshness.

Pair your blackened chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete and well-balanced meal. The flavors of the blackened chicken and the creamy avocado sauce will dance together harmoniously, creating a taste sensation you won’t soon forget.

Conclusion

Blackened chicken with avocado cream sauce is a winning combination that will elevate your chicken dinner to a whole new level. The bold and smoky flavors of the blackened chicken, combined with the creamy and tangy avocado sauce, create a symphony of taste that is sure to satisfy your cravings.

So why wait? Try making blackened chicken with avocado cream sauce for your next dinner or gathering, and watch as your guests rave about the explosion of flavors on their plates. It’s a dish that not only looks impressive but also delivers on taste and satisfaction.

FAQs

Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs work just as well and can add extra juiciness to the dish.

Q: Can I make the blackened chicken on a grill instead of a skillet?

A: Yes, you can! Simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165째F (74째C).

Q: Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in the avocado cream sauce?

A: Yes, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for sour cream if you’re looking for a healthier option.

Q: How long does the avocado cream sauce stay fresh?

A: The avocado cream sauce is best consumed within 2-3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I add additional spices to the blackened chicken rub?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices and add your personal touch to the blackened chicken rub.

Q: Is blackened chicken spicy?

A: Blackened chicken has a mild to moderate level of spiciness, depending on the amount of cayenne pepper used in the spice rub. Adjust the spice level to your preference.

Q: Can I freeze the blackened chicken?

A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked blackened chicken. Make sure to cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Q: Can I use the avocado cream sauce as a dip?

A: Absolutely! The avocado cream sauce can be used as a dip for chips, vegetables, or even as a topping for tacos.

Blackened Chicken with Avocado Cream Sauce

Prep10 min

Total40 min

Servings4

2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 cup quinoa
½ cup chopped scallions
1 ½ teaspoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon sea salt
4 (4 ounce) skinless (, boneless chicken breast halves)
non-stick cooking spray
½ avocado
¼ cup plain non-fat Greek-style yogurt
1 ½ teaspoons lemon juice
½ teaspoon garlic powder

Cook the quinoa by bringing chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan.
Stir in the quinoa and bring to a boil again, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the quinoa is tender and the broth is absorbed.
Stir in the scallions and lemon juice into the cooked quinoa.
Prepare the chicken by mixing paprika, cumin, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt together in a small bowl.
Rub the seasoning mixture onto the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated.
Spray a large skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet, cover with a lid, and cook for about 7 minutes on each side until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.
Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the chicken has reached at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) in the center.
Make the avocado cream sauce by blending avocado, yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic powder in a food processor until smooth.
Spread the cooked quinoa onto a serving platter.
Arrange the cooked chicken breasts on top of the quinoa.
Drizzle the avocado cream sauce over the chicken breasts.