Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful way to elevate your chicken dinners? Look no further! This recipe recreates the magic of Lawry's Seasoning Salt, bringing that signature savory punch to your homemade chicken. Forget bland, boring chicken breasts – get ready for juicy, crispy, and intensely delicious meals that will impress your family and friends. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into parts or 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon celery salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Blend
In a small bowl, combine all the spices: paprika, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, celery salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed. This homemade Lawry's Seasoning Salt blend is the heart of this recipe.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes crispy skin (if using bone-in, skin-on chicken). Generously sprinkle the spice blend over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. You can use your hands to rub the seasoning into the chicken for even better flavor penetration.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
There are several ways to cook your seasoned chicken:
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Pan-frying: Heat a tablespoon of oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on both sides, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven (400°F/200°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. This method gives you deliciously crispy skin.
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve your delicious, perfectly seasoned chicken with your favorite sides – roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad are all excellent choices.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra crispy skin, increase the baking time or pan-fry the chicken until golden brown.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit it entirely.
- This seasoning blend works wonderfully on other meats too! Try it on pork chops, fish, or even vegetables.
- Store leftover seasoning blend in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, based on 4 servings of boneless, skinless chicken breast):
Calories: Approximately 180-200 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 5-7g Carbohydrates: 2-3g
This homemade Lawry's Seasoning Salt recipe offers a simple yet effective way to make delicious and healthy meals. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meal options, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and flavorful dinner solution. Enjoy!