For a healthy, protein-packed meal with a flavorful twist, try this Hummus Crusted Chicken. This recipe pairs boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a creamy hummus coating infused with garlic and spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and red chili powder. The hummus locks in moisture while adding a burst of flavor, ensuring juicy and tender chicken with every bite. The zing of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, making it perfect for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Serve it with roasted vegetables, salad, or your favorite grain for a complete, wholesome dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup hummus of your choice (e.g., chipotle hummus)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 lemon (for zest and juice)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by either lining it with parchment paper or brushing it lightly with olive oil for easy cleanup and non-stick cooking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and set them aside.
- Make the Hummus Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the hummus, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and red chili powder. Add the zest of half a lemon and squeeze in the juice of half the lemon. Stir until well combined.
- Coat the Chicken: Spread the hummus mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, making sure they are well coated.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Optional: For a crispy top, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the chicken for added brightness. Serve with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion:
This Hummus Crusted Chicken is a unique and flavorful way to enjoy boneless, skinless chicken breasts. The hummus not only adds a creamy and rich flavor but also helps keep the chicken tender and juicy. The combination of spices and lemon elevates the dish, making it both healthy and delicious. It’s a quick, simple recipe that works well for weeknight dinners and meal prep.
Hummus Crusted Chicken: A Flavorful and Healthy Twist
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup hummus of your choice e.g., chipotle hummus
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 lemon for zest and juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by either lining it with parchment paper or brushing it lightly with olive oil for easy cleanup and non-stick cooking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and set them aside.
- Make the Hummus Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the hummus, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and red chili powder. Add the zest of half a lemon and squeeze in the juice of half the lemon. Stir until well combined.
- Coat the Chicken: Spread the hummus mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, making sure they are well coated.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Optional: For a crispy top, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the chicken for added brightness. Serve with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.