PROBUS Club of Durham West

Sharing Our Recipes

It’s much like Shake ‘n Bake but has a more sophisticated combination of spices and flavours.  I called “The Big Guy” to come rub some breasts and he responded with instant glee and enthusiasm careening around the corner of the kitchen at break-neck speed.  Not to miss an opportunity, that one!

I found this recipe at www.recipetineats.com and have added a few breadcrumbs for extra crunch.  It is a quick dinner on a busy night or a classy entre for a dinner party.  The spice mixture can be stored in a shaker and used if you are preparing just a single chicken breast.  It seems that the chicken breasts we purchase in the store have increased in size, so sometimes preparing just one chicken breast has enough meat for 2 hungry seniors… although, “The Big Guy” tells me, he prefers working with two at a time.

On the beverage side, “The Big Guy” recommends a Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling to complement these superb breasts.  The high acidity of these white wines helps balance the spiciness of the paprika and the richness of the chicken.  Enjoy!

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts
2 tsp olive oil

Seasoning:

1 Tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp fine breadcrumbs
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
¼ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
Dust of red chili peppers (optional)

Garnish:

Parsley flakes, fresh or dried

Method

1.     Preheat oven to 425° F.
2.     Mix seasoning in a small bowl.
3.     Line an oven-proof tray with foil or parchment paper.
4.     Place chicken breasts upside down and drizzle with 1 tsp olive oil then sprinkle with seasoning. 
5.     Flip the breasts and repeat.
6.     Bake 18 to 20 minutes turn breasts then bake 5 to 10 minutes more, if needed. Internal temperature needs to be 165° F.