15 in 3: Dinner 6 Blackened Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Steamed Broccoli

Welcome to the sixth installment of 15 in 3!  This is the place I am sharing my 15 favorite dinners over the next 3 weeks.  Stay tuned for easy homemade dinner recipes containing lots of whole foods, minimal processed ingredients, and straight forward recipes with everyday healthy ingredients.  Some posts will contain bonus breakfast and snack ideas.  Happy cooking!

Dinner 6:  Blackened Chicken with Cheesy Orzo and Steamed Broccoli

I've used blackening seasoning on fish before, but have never put it on chicken.  It was delicious!  It would be awesome grilled!

I prefer to make my own blackening seasoning.  Most of the store bought stuff is loaded with salt.  This recipe has become one of my favorites.  The herbs and spices required are pretty basic.  You probably have these things in your cupboard already.  It turns out great every time!  It is not very hot-spicy, but can be made so if you choose.  If you're unsure, start with a little bit of cayenne pepper, mix, and wet the tip of your finger to taste it.  You can always add more cayenne, but you can never add less!

Ingredients:

1 lb. chicken breast (I cut breasts horizontally.  The thinner pieces cook more quickly and evenly.)

To taste, blackening seasoning

1 T. olive oil

4 oz. uncooked orzo pasta

2 oz. colby jack cheese

1/4 c. shredded mozzarella cheese

2 T. shredded parmesan cheese

1-2 T. ground flax seed

To taste, pepper

12 oz. bag frozen broccoli florets

1 T. butter

To taste, salt and pepper

Directions:

1.  Heat a pot of water until boiling.  Add orzo, stir occasionally and cook until al dente.  Drain and return to the pot.  With heat off, stir in cheeses, flax seed, and pepper.  If too thick, add a touch of milk and stir until creamy.  

2.  Meanwhile, season chicken breasts, gently rub seasoning into meat, then flip sides and repeat.  Put olive oil in a skillet on medium or medium low heat.  Add chicken, and cook each side for 6-8 minutes or until lightly golden brown.  When chicken is just barely done, turn off heat and cover for 5 minutes or until orzo and broccoli are ready.

3.  Put broccoli and butter in microwave safe bowl and steam until hot (about 5 minutes).  Season with salt and pepper, then stir until thoroughly combined.

This meal is quick and easy.  It is even simpler if you keep the blackening seasoning prepared on hand.

Serves 4.  Calories in each: 490.

Enjoy!!