The unwavering loyalty in the following of the Sweetgreen blackened chicken recipe can be attributed to it being smoky, full of flavor, and bold. The chicken is perfectly blackened and when paired with the ‘Velvet Koginut Squash’, it results in the combination of a nourishing and deeply satisfying meal.
Pulled together in this dish which is prepared for the Sweetgreen recipe is exquisitely seasoned and seared chicken comprised alongside the naturally sweet, and roasted squash. This dish encapsules balance in both richness and heat while still being satisfying to every single bite. This is guaranteed to impress whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a restaurant level quality dish to prepare at home. Now let’s dive into the cooking process.
Most Important Sweetgreen Blackened Chicken Recipe Benefits
If you adore restaurant-esque bold flavors and minimal effort is required to achieve them, then the Sweetgreen blackened chicken recipe is bound to make a big difference. This recipe isn’t only smoky with a hint of spice, but it goes along perfectly with ‘Koginut Squash’ resulting in the making of a balanced dish. Here are some reasons as to why you will fall in love with it.
Incredible Flavor – Irresistible is the best word to describe the sensation created by this recipes skillful blend of spicy, sweet, and smoky components.
Easy & Quick – All that is required is a hot skillet, a few pantry spices, and in under 20 minutes achieve perfection with a side of seasoned blackened chicken.
Nutrient-dense – Thanks to the koginut squash which has a dominant presence in this meal, which is high in lean protein and is complete with multivitamin, your body is fuelled and your taste buds are satisfied.
Custom & Multi-Purpose – Relish it in bowls with grains, as part of a salad, or even by itself along with preferred sides.
Convenience – Cook a large portion of it in advance to save time during the weekday lunch/dinner rush.
Components of the Sweetgreen Blackened Chicken & Koginut Squash Recipe
Blackened Chicken Preparation:
-2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (or thighs for even more juiciness)
-1 tablespoon of olive oil (or avocado oil for cooking with high heat)
-1 teaspoon smoked paprika (imparts a rich, smoky flavor)
-1 teaspoon garlic powder (crucial for bold flavors and seasoning)
-½ teaspoon onion powder (provides a delicate hint of sweetness)
-½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your preferred level of heat)
-½ teaspoon ground cumin (earthy)
-½ teaspoon of salt (helps to balance flavors)
-¼ teaspoon of black pepper (provides a moderate kick)
For the Koginut Squash:
1 kudonut squash (peeled, seeded, and diced into cubes)
1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil (for roasting and caramelizing)
1 tablespoon of maple syrup (to bring out the sweetness)
½ teaspoon of cinnamon (gives warmth and depth to the dish)
¼ teaspoon of salt (enhaces the overall flavors of the dish)
¼ teaspoon of black paper (provides a hint of spiciness)
Potential Additions & Other Options:
Quinoa or wild rice – An extra filling option that transforms this into a complete dish
Red pepper flakes – For a more pungent taste
Lemon juice – A squeeze over blackened chicken for that fresh tingle
Fresh herbs – Braised parsley or cilantro for added herbaceousness
How To Make Sweetgreen Blackened Chicken Bismack Recipe
It is now time to start on the recipe; with all your ingredients in place, you are ready to harmonize the sweetgreen blackened chicken recipe.
To achieve a flavor packed, nutritious meal that combines perfectly spiced juicy chicken and caramelized koginut squash, follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepping Koginut Squash
Start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
With the aid of a large bowl, combine the bozeman olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt and black paper with the cut up koginut squash cubes.
Afterward, spread the squash on the baking sheet in a single layer and ensure that there is enough spacing between the pieces to allow for even roasting.
Finally, roast the mixture for 25-30 minutes. Make sure to flip halfway through for even cooking, and remove the mixture from the oven once the edges are caramelized and the squash is fork-tender.
Step 2: Seasoning Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick better to the meat. In a separate bowl mix the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper and finally the oregano.
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, ensuring that both sides are covered. Afterward, gently coat the chicken in the spice mix and press lightly with your hands to allow for the spices to stick.
Step 3: Cooking the Blackened Chicken
Heat a pan over medium high heat.
Add the seasoned chicken to the hot pan and without moving it, allow it to sear for 4-5 mintues. This will create the signature blackened crust.
Cook for 4-5 minutes after flipping the chicken. The internal temperature needs to be 165°F (74°C).
After taking it off the stove, allow to it to rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices before cutting it.
Step 4: Serve and Relish
Plating the sliced blackened chicken goes with the koginut squash.
For well-balanced meal, serve with quinoa, leafy greens or a warm grain bowl.
With the first bite, the spiciness, sweetness and smokiness of the dish will bring to mind the indulgence of your favorite Sweetgreen meal.
Tips and Changes
If you want a different flavor for your Sweetgreen blackened chicken recipe, these changes and tips go a long way in helping while keeping it easy to prepare.
The ideal tip for perfect blackened chicken is to ensure the skillet is hot while using a heavy bottomed skillet or cast iron pan. This way, the seasoning will stick without burning.
In addition to this, allow the chicken to remain in one position for a few minutes to achieve a blackened exterior while not moving it too soon.
Use a meat thermometer – Ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken is 165°F (74°C) before taking it off the fire for perfect, juicy chicken.
Rest before slicing – To keep chicken juicy and tasty, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Roasted Koginut Squash Enhancements
Boost the caramelization – Prior to roasting the squash, add a bit of balsamic vinegar for extra depth and richness to the flavor.
Make it spicy – To balance out the sweetness of the squash, add a little pinch of cayenne or chili flakes.
Go for crispy edges – Spread squash evenly on the sheet pan so that it does not steam, promoting crisp, golden edges to the squash.
Creative Variations
Vegan Option – Use blackened tofu or chickpeas in place of chicken, and use the same spice blend to maintain a flavorful and smoky dish.
Dairy-Free Ranch Drizzle – For extra creaminess, an alternative ranch dressing made from cashews or tahini can be added.
Sweetgreen-Inspired Bowl – For the ultimate grain bowl, serve quinoa or wild rice, or kale with avocado, pumpkin seeds, and drizzle with lemon tahini sauce.
Air Fryer Option – For a perfectly cooked chicken with crisp edges, place it in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping it halfway through.
Servings Suggestions
The Sweetgreen blackened chicken recipe is full of flavor and easily customizable, which means it can fit your needs. As with any protein, chicken can be a filling option or a light meal. Here are some ways to serve it:
- Sweetgreen Style Grain Bowl
Sweetgreen is known for their grain bowls and so for the signature Sweetgreen taste, serve the blackened chicken and roasted squash with:
Koginut squash and blackened chicken can also be served on a base of aioli infused quinoa or mixed wild rice blend and bobab kale for added flavor along with peppery baby arugula, creamy avocado slices, and crunchy pecans and pumpkin seeds. Finally, lemon tahini dressing ties the dish together to have the perfect finish.
- Power Salad
Transform this dish into a protein dense hearty salad by mixing sliced blackened chicken and wedges of Koginut squash with:
Blistered cherry tomatoes, pickled red onion, goat cheese, and balsamic vinaigrette over a mixed green or chopped romaine heart takes this dish to the next level.
- Cozy Dinner Plate
Pair the roasted Koginut squash and blackened chicken with garlic mashed potatoes for an exquisite dinner. The smokey flavors of sweet carrots and pack the dish together with honey glazed carrots alongside fried Brussels sprouts or steamed green broccoli.
- Wrap or Sandwich Option
Do you need something quicker to eat? You can serve the blackened chicken sliced up served on a toasted ciabatta or in a hiote wheat wrap with:
Crisp roasted red peppers for extra flavor
Hummus or garlic aioli for creaminess
Crisp lettuce for freshness
- Meal Prep Ready
This dish is ideal for meal prepping. Store how every meal in the week you want to use it in separate airtight containers and enjoy with:
A side of cooked farro, couscous or roasted chick peas for variety
A different dressing or dip each day to keep things fresh and exciting
Your cabbage, pumpkin, and potatoes will be tender but still holding their shape as you serve this bold, slightly sweet dish. Now, let’s wrap things up!
Conclusion
This blackened chicken recipe makes a meal that is smokey balanced the right way to taste the sweetness from the roasted koginut squash. We all know the struggles of meal prepping, especially assembling grain bowls, but with this dish, everything is elevated by the deep satisfying taste in every new bite, making it enjoyable in a sense where these tasks are no longer chores.
With some basic professional cooking advice, you’ll be able to make perfect blackened chicken that has a crispy exterior and juicy center. Furthermore, by swapping out certain ingredients and adding your own personal touches, you can modify the dish to fit your tastes and dietary restrictions.
You are now well equipped to prepare this unmatched blackened chicken, so go ahead and enjoy! I look forward to hearing about how you serve the dish, so please remember to share your experience. Enjoy the cooking!
FAQs
- Why does this version of the blackened chicken recipe resemble Sweetgreen’s?
This recipe reproduces the distinctive taste of Sweetgreen blackened chicken in its well balanced, bold spice blend and a high heat searing technique that guarantees a juicy, and flavorful meat. Additionally, it is similar to a Sweetgreen grain bowl becausewhen mixed with roasted koginut squash and some fresh toppings, it creates a delicious wholesome dish.
- Can I substitute the koginut squash for a different type?
Of course! If you can’t find koginut squash, you can substitute it with butternut, delicata, or honeynut squash. All of them have a sweet, nutty taste that complements the flavor profile of the smokey blackened chicken.
- What is the most effective way to store the leftovers?
Refrigerate: The chicken and squash should the cooked items should be stored separately in sealed containers for up to four days.
Reheat: For optimal texture, reheat on a skillet over medium heat or microwave for one to two minutes.
Freeze: The blackened chicken can be frozen up to two months and reheated after thawing overnight.
- Can I cook the chicken in an air fryer?
Certainly! If you have an air fryer, season the chicken and cook in the fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 12 to 15 minutes, turning it halfway through the cooking time. This keeps the chicken crispy on the outside, but juicy inside.
- What’s the best way to serve this dish?
This recipe is so flexible you can serve it: Over quinoa, wild rice, or a fresh salad. In a grain bowl with avocado and tahini dressing. As a wrap or sandwich with hummus and greens.
- How can I make this recipe spicier?
For extra heat, use more cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top before serving.
- Can I make this dish dairy-free and gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is automatically gluten and dairy free. However, you may want to check the sauce or store bought dressing for gluten or dairy.