Description
This flavorful Blackened Chicken with Caramel and Clementine Dressing features perfectly seared, spice-coated chicken breasts topped with a sweet and tangy citrus glaze. The warm dressing marries the bright notes of fresh clementines with a hint of balsamic and honey, creating a deliciously balanced main course that’s quick to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Dressing
- 1/3 cup fresh clementine juice (about 2–3 clementines)
- 1 tablespoon clementine zest
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt to create the blackening spice blend.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Evenly coat each breast with the prepared spice mix, ensuring all sides are covered for maximum flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes on each side until they are blackened and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the skillet from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to retain juices and ensure tenderness.
- Make the Dressing: In a small saucepan, combine fresh clementine juice, zest, brown sugar, and honey. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook until it slightly thickens, about 4–5 minutes.
- Finish the Dressing: Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Serve: Slice the rested chicken breasts and drizzle the warm caramelized clementine dressing over the top. Serve immediately with your choice of sides such as rice, greens, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Pair this dish with a fresh citrusy arugula salad or fluffy couscous to complement the sweet and spicy flavors.
- If clementines are not available, you can substitute fresh oranges for the juice and zest.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
