Cajun-Style Blackened Chicken with Zesty Herb Drizzle

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste)

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon sea salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• Fresh lemon slices, for garnish

Zesty Herb Drizzle:

• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)

• Juice and zest of ½ lemon

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped

• Pinch of salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl, mixing thoroughly.

2. Lightly brush chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then generously coat with spice blend on all sides.

3. In a skillet (cast-iron preferred), heat remaining olive oil over medium-high heat.

4. Sear chicken breasts for about 5–7 minutes per side until deeply browned and cooked through. Rest chicken for a few minutes on a plate, loosely covered.

5. While the chicken rests, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice and zest, parsley, cilantro, salt, and pepper until smooth.

6. Slice chicken and drizzle generously with the herb yogurt sauce. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and additional fresh herbs, if desired.

7. Serve warm.

Yield: 2 servings
Enjoy!