If you’re a fan of delicious and healthy food, you’ve probably heard of Sweetgreen, the popular fast-casual restaurant chain known for its fresh and flavorful salads. One of their standout menu items is the Sweetgreen Blackened Chicken Salad. It’s a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken breast with a perfectly balanced blend of spices and seasoning. The result? A blackened chicken recipe that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to recreate Sweetgreen’s blackened chicken at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this article is worth reading because it breaks down the process step by step. By the end, you’ll have the skills to whip up this restaurant-quality dish whenever your taste buds crave it.

Contents

1 What Is Blackened Chicken?
2 Storing Leftover Blackened Chicken
3 Alternative Ways to Enjoy Blackened Chicken
4 Sweet Greens Blackened Chicken Recipe
- 4.1 Ingredients
- 4.2 Directions
5 Nutritional Content (per serving):
6 Frequently Asked Questions:
7 Can I Use the Same Breading Technique for the Sweet Greens Blackened Chicken Recipe as the Texas Roadhouse Chicken Fried Steak Recipe?
8 Conclusion

What Is Blackened Chicken?

Blackened chicken is a cooking technique that involves seasoning chicken breast with a flavorful spice mix and then cooking it in a hot skillet until the outside is charred and blackened while keeping the inside tender and juicy. It’s a technique that originated in Cajun cuisine and has become popular for its bold and spicy flavors.

Storing Leftover Blackened Chicken

If you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry. Sweetgreen’s blackened chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. It’s a great option for meal prepping or enjoying the next day.

Alternative Ways to Enjoy Blackened Chicken

While Sweetgreen’s blackened chicken is famous for its salads, there are other ways to enjoy this flavorful dish:

– Blackened Chicken Burrito: Wrap the blackened chicken in a tortilla with your favourite burrito fillings for a spicy twist on a classic.

– Grilled Blackened Chicken: Fire up the grill and cook the chicken outdoors for a smoky flavour that’s perfect for summer barbecues.

Sweet Greens Blackened Chicken Recipe

Recipe by Heather Smith

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

700

kcal

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons blackening seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups mixed greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, kale)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing
2 tablespoons honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Rub the blackening seasoning evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion slices.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinaigrette dressing and honey until well combined.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat. Divide the salad among serving plates and top each with sliced blackened chicken.
Serve the Sweet Greens Blackened Chicken immediately, and enjoy your delicious, healthy meal!

Nutritional Content (per serving):

– Calories: 350

– Protein: 26g

– Carbohydrates: 21g

– Fiber: 3g

– Sugars: 15g

– Fat: 18g

– Saturated Fat: 3g

– Cholesterol: 70mg

– Sodium: 600mg

– Vitamin D: 0%

– Calcium: 6%

– Iron: 15%

– Potassium: 22%

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is blackening seasoning, and can I make it at home?

– Blackening seasoning is a spice blend typically used to season meats, giving them a spicy and smoky flavor. You can make it at home by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences.

2. Can I use other protein sources besides chicken?

– Absolutely! While this recipe features blackened chicken, you can substitute it with blackened shrimp, salmon, tofu, or even beef if you prefer. Adjust the cooking times accordingly.

3. Is there a low-calorie dressing alternative I can use for the salad?

– Yes, if you’re looking to reduce the calorie content, consider using a light balsamic vinaigrette or a simple lemon vinaigrette. These options provide a tangy flavor without the added sugars and calories.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time for meal prep?

– Yes, you can prepare the blackened chicken and salad components separately in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken briefly and assemble the salad with the dressing for a fresh meal.

5. Are there any side dishes that pair well with this recipe?

– Sweet Greens Blackened Chicken pairs beautifully with side dishes like roasted sweet potatoes, quinoa, or a light couscous salad. These options complement the flavors and add variety to your meal.

Can I Use the Same Breading Technique for the Sweet Greens Blackened Chicken Recipe as the Texas Roadhouse Chicken Fried Steak Recipe?

The breading technique used in the texas roadhouse chicken fried steak recipe may not be suitable for the Sweet Greens Blackened Chicken recipe. Each recipe requires its own unique breading method to achieve the desired flavor and texture. It’s important to follow the specific instructions provided in each recipe to ensure successful results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making Sweetgreen’s blackened chicken recipe at home is easy and quick. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to create a restaurant-quality dish that’s both delicious and healthy. With simple ingredients and a little culinary flair, you can enjoy the bold flavors of blackened chicken whenever you like. So, why not try this recipe today and savor the irresistible taste of Sweetgreen’s blackened chicken? Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!