cinnamon queen chicken
Discover the deliciously spiced Cinnamon Queen Chickenrecipe – a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish perfect for any meal. Try ittoday!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts – The star of the dish! Chicken breasts are lean, juicy, and take on the spices beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – This is the secret ingredient that gives this chicken its warm aromatic flavor. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For a little richness and to help sear the chicken to a beautiful golden brown.
- 2 cloves garlic minced – Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor that enhances the cinnamon and spices.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – A warm earthy spice that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon to bring depth to the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness and vibrant color to the chicken.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to bring everything together.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:
- 1 tablespoon honey – For a touch of sweetness that balances the savory spices if you like a hint of sweetness in your chicken.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – A bright zesty kick that helps balance the richness of the cinnamon and garlic.
- Fresh cilantro or parsley – A garnish that adds freshness and color to your finished dish.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat if needed.
- Gently pound the chicken breasts with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch). This helps the chicken cook evenly and ensures it stays juicy.
Step 2: Make the Spice Rub
- In a small bowl, combine ground cinnamon, ground cumin, paprika, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add in your olive oil to create a smooth paste. This will coat the chicken and infuse it with flavor as it cooks. You can also stir in a little honey for sweetness if desired.
Step 3: Marinate (Optional but Recommended)
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is fully coated. For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight). This gives the spices time to soak into the meat, making it extra delicious.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little more olive oil. Once the pan is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the pan.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you prefer a crispy exterior, you can cook the chicken for an extra 1-2 minutes on each side.
- As the chicken cooks, you can squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the top for an extra burst of freshness.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley to add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the spices.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 340mg
- Potassium: 490mg
- Vitamin A: 10% DV
- Vitamin C: 15% DV
- Calcium: 4% DV
- Iron: 8% DV