Versatile Blackened Seasoning

    I find that in the summertime, it's easy to fall into a trap of grilling and smothering barbecue sauce on EVERYTHING. Of course, I am never one to complain about tender grilled meat doused in Sweet Baby Ray's, but there are other options!

    This seasoning is my go to when I'm looking for something simple, but trying to change it up a bit. It is extremely versatile and tastes great on anything from pork to chicken to seafood, adding wonderful spice and flavor.

(Keep in mind you can make this seasoning ahead of time and store it for every day use!)

     I served this chicken with a simple homemade salsa - fresh tomatoes, black beans, onion, green pepper and pineapple. The sweet freshness of it paired great with the spiced chicken, and it is soooo easy! Just chop the veggies, drain the cans and toss together with the salt, pepper and lemon/lime juice. You could add jalapeno or cayenne pepper to heat it up as well. It's so worth taking a few extra minutes to toss something like this together because it really rounds out the dish!

      The chicken topped the salsa and a creamy chunk of avocado is literally the perfect bite! Plus, this dish is naturally gluten free, loaded with nutritional value and it's a crowd pleaser.

I recommend eating the leftover chicken over a salad with a creamy dressing like ranch to balance out the spice. It's super delicious!


 

Versatile Blackened Seasoning 
Ingredients:
2 tbsp paprika
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1/2 tbsp chili powder
1/2 tbsp cumin
1 tbsp kosher salt (or to taste)
1 tsp black pepper

Directions:
Mix ingredients together. Generously season chicken, pork or seafood.