Craving that addictive Zaxby's flavor? Forget takeout and expensive delivery fees! This easy recipe reveals the secret to replicating that delicious Zaxby's seasoning right in your own kitchen. It's perfect for chicken, but you'll find yourself sprinkling it on everything! Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking with this surprisingly simple and incredibly flavorful seasoning blend. This recipe is a delicious and quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights. It's also a healthy alternative to eating out, allowing you to control the ingredients and portion sizes.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup paprika (smoked paprika adds a deeper flavor)
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
Instructions:
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Combine the Spices: In a small bowl, whisk together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, salt, oregano, thyme, celery seed, and white pepper. Make sure everything is well combined for even flavor distribution.
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Store Your Seasoning: Transfer the seasoning blend to an airtight container. This will keep your seasoning fresh for weeks, allowing you to enjoy Zaxby's-inspired meals anytime.
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Season Your Protein: Generously season your chicken (or any protein!) with the homemade blend before cooking. You can use it for baking, frying, grilling, or even as a dry rub.
Cooking Tips for Zaxby's Inspired Dishes:
- Don't be shy with the seasoning! Taste as you go, but generally, a heavier hand is better with this blend.
- Experiment with different proteins: This seasoning isn't just for chicken. Try it on fish, pork, or even vegetables for a unique flavor boost.
- Make it your own: Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level according to your preference. Feel free to experiment with other spices like cumin or chili powder to create your signature blend.
Variations:
- Spicy Zaxby's Seasoning: Increase the cayenne pepper to 2 tablespoons for extra heat. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an even spicier kick.
- Zaxby's Seasoning with Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can be added to enhance the aromatic profile. Add them at the end to maintain their freshness.
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon):
This information is approximate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 15-20 calories
- Fat: Less than 1 gram
- Sodium: Approximately 150-200mg
This homemade Zaxby's seasoning is a delicious and easy way to enjoy restaurant-quality flavor at home. It's a versatile addition to your spice rack, and with its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it's the perfect addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meal options. Enjoy!