Mia Patel
Chicken is a versatile meat that can be spiced up in a variety of ways. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast looking for new flavours to add to your grilled chicken or just looking for a quick and easy chicken breast recipe, there are numerous condiments, sauces, marinades, and spices to choose from. From traditional Middle Eastern sides like tabbouleh, yoghurt, and pita to unique condiments like tartar sauce and jalapeños, you can transform your chicken dish. Not to mention the classic spices like paprika, saffron, and garlic that can add a savoury warmth to your meal. So, how do you pick up chicken in a condiment? The possibilities are endless!
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What You'll Learn
Marinades and dry rubs
Marinades, on the other hand, are made with spices and a liquid, such as vinegar, olive oil or wine. Marinades are used to infuse flavour and tenderise the meat. The meat is left to soak in the liquid and spices for a period of time, which can vary depending on the type of meat. For example, shrimp only needs to be marinated for 15 minutes, while tougher cuts of meat can be left for up to 12 hours. Jamaican jerk and tandoori are popular marinades for chicken.
Some people prefer dry rubs for their convenience and simplicity, while others prefer marinades for their ability to infuse flavour and tenderise the meat. When using a dry rub with boneless, skinless chicken, it is recommended to rub it directly onto the meat. If using chicken with skin, the rub should be applied under the skin to ensure the flavour penetrates the meat.
In addition to dry rubs and marinades, individual spices and herbs can be used to enhance the flavour of chicken. Paprika, for example, adds a gentle, savoury warmth to chicken dishes and is commonly used in Spanish cuisine. Saffron, a delicate herb with a honeyed floral flavour, is prized for its unique flavour and orange-red colour. Garlic is another popular ingredient that, when cooked, mellows and becomes sweet. It can be used as an aromatic base for dishes or added to butter to create a rich rub for roasts. Lemon peel and basil are other flavour pairings that work well with chicken, adding a bright, sunny flavour.
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Healthy sauces and condiments
Sauces and condiments can add flavour, texture, and nutrients to your meals. However, many store-bought options are high in calories, sugar, salt, and other additives. Here are some healthier alternatives to elevate your meals:
Salsa
Salsa is a great low-calorie condiment to add to your diet. Two tablespoons of salsa contain only 10 calories. It can be used to spice up recipes like tacos, fajitas, or scrambled eggs. Salsa is also a healthy alternative to higher-calorie salad dressings. When choosing a salsa, opt for one that is low in sodium and free from added sugar to maximise its health benefits.
Tahini
Tahini is a Middle Eastern sauce made from ground sesame seeds. It is a good source of plant-based protein, with two tablespoons providing over 5 grams of protein, which is 8% of the RDI for an 80-kg adult. Tahini can be used as a condiment for dipping vegetables, in homemade salad dressings, or spread on toast with cinnamon for a balanced breakfast.
Honey
Honey can be used as a natural sweetener for tea, yoghurt, or fruit dishes. However, it should be consumed in moderation as excessive added sugar can lead to health issues.
Nutritional Yeast
Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast commonly used as a condiment in vegan cooking. It is an excellent source of vitamin B12, providing 200% of the RDI for this vitamin in just two tablespoons. Nutritional yeast can be used as a dairy-free cheese alternative in vegan soups and sauces or sprinkled over scrambled eggs, baked potatoes, or popcorn.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil has numerous health benefits due to its rich antioxidant content, which helps reduce cell damage. It is best used in recipes that require minimal cooking to preserve its nutritional benefits. Drizzle it over cooked pasta, vegetables, or seafood for a healthy boost.
Healthy Store-Bought Options
If you're looking for convenience, there are several healthy store-bought sauces and condiments available. Here are some recommendations:
- Primal Kitchen's Greek Vinaigrette and Buffalo Sauce
- Gotham Greens' Green Goddess Dressing
- Tessemae's Italian Dressing and Barbecue Sauce
- Rao's Tomato Basil and Marinara Sauce
- Trader Joe's Toasted Sesame Dressing
- Whole30 Secret Sauce
- Siete Foods' Red Enchilada Sauce
- Seggiano's Pesto, including their Sundried Tomato variety
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Spices and herbs
Chicken is a versatile meat that pairs well with a wide variety of spices and herbs. The best spices and herbs for chicken are often a matter of personal preference, and experimenting with different combinations can be a fun way to find your favourites.
Some common spices and herbs used with chicken include black pepper, paprika, oregano, onion, garlic, parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, and cayenne pepper. These spices and herbs can be combined in various ways to create unique and delicious flavour profiles. For example, a simple blend of black pepper, paprika, garlic, onion, thyme, and oregano can be used to season chicken before baking, roasting, or frying. Alternatively, creating a Cajun seasoning with paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, garlic, and herbs can add a spicy kick to your dish.
In addition to dry rubs and blends, fresh herbs can also be used to enhance the flavour of chicken. Lemon herb chicken, for instance, combines the bright, zesty notes of lemon with herbaceous flavours to create a deliciously mild, Mediterranean-style dish. Fresh garlic also has a different, more intense flavour than dry garlic, and can add a sweet note to your dish when cooked.
When using spices and herbs to season chicken, it is important to consider the cooking method. For example, when pan-frying chicken, it is best to pat the meat dry before adding spices, as moisture will cause them to fall off. In this case, drying the chicken and rubbing it with butter or olive oil before adding spices can help them adhere to the meat.
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Chicken sandwich toppings
When it comes to chicken sandwich toppings, the possibilities are endless. The toppings you choose can make or break your sandwich, so it's important to select a combination of ingredients that complement each other and enhance the flavour of the chicken.
Lettuce is a classic choice and adds a crunchy texture to your sandwich. Different types of lettuce offer varying levels of crispness and flavour. For example, iceberg lettuce is known for its crisp texture, while romaine has a stronger flavour. Tomatoes are another popular option, adding freshness to your sandwich. However, it's important to ensure they are ripe and added just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Onions are a versatile topping that can be used to add a distinctive bite to your sandwich. Red onions are a common choice, but sweet onions or sautéed shallots can also work well. If you're feeling adventurous, try pickled red onions for an extra tangy flavour. Arugula is another leafy green that can add a unique flavour and texture to your sandwich.
Cheese is always a delicious option for a chicken sandwich. While American cheese is a classic, Swiss cheese can take your sandwich to the next level. Adding a slice of cheese to a hot chicken patty will give it a slight melt, creating a delicious, creamy texture.
For those who enjoy a tangy twist, sauces like ketchup or guacamole can be excellent choices. Fresh guacamole adds a unique flavour and texture to your sandwich, while ketchup's sticky sweetness pairs surprisingly well with the salty flavours of a chicken sandwich. If you're feeling creative, try making a basil garlic aioli by mixing basil, garlic, and mayonnaise for a creamy, flavourful sauce.
Other toppings to consider include garlic, which can be used in a variety of ways, from rubs to condiments; lemon peel, which adds a bright, refreshing flavour; and basil, which brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your sandwich. If you're feeling adventurous, try something unique like crushed tortilla chip breading on your chicken for an extra crunchy texture.
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Sides and accompaniments
When it comes to picking up chicken, whether it's a rotisserie chicken on the way home from work, a hearty dinner, or a light sandwich, there are a plethora of side dishes and accompaniments to choose from.
For a classic roast chicken dinner, consider adding some vegetables to your plate. Green vegetables like broccoli, spinach, green beans, or Brussels sprouts are a great way to round out your meal. You can also opt for carrots, squash, or potatoes, either mashed or roasted with a tangy vinegar twist.
If you're feeling adventurous, try something like Parmesan-crusted Brussels sprouts, elote rice, or butter-roasted sweet potatoes. For a lighter option, a simple salad or burrata bruschetta can accompany your chicken.
For fried chicken, mashed potatoes are a cozy and creamy counterbalance to the crunch of the chicken. You can also go for roasted okra, beans and rice, or batata harra (spicy, herby potatoes). For a refreshing twist, add some pickles or a side of coleslaw.
If you're having a chicken sandwich, pickles are a classic choice, with their contrasting texture and flavour. You could also add some spice with a tangy tartar sauce, made with mayonnaise, pickle relish, and sometimes capers and herbs.
For BBQ chicken, a light and refreshing side like burrata bruschetta can be a great choice. You can also add some juicy summer fruits like watermelon or orange, or a tangy pickle by swishing onions in vinegar or lemon juice.
Lastly, for chicken in other forms, like teriyaki stir-fry or salsa chicken, you can pair it with cauliflower rice, Mexican red rice, or lemon ricotta pasta with baby arugula.
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Frequently asked questions
Some healthy condiments to go with chicken include yogurt, lemon peel, basil, and garlic.
Some condiments that can add flavour to chicken sandwiches include mayonnaise, tartar sauce, and pickles.
Lemon juice or vinegar can help make chicken tender. Marinades with buttermilk or yogurt are gentler on the proteins and take longer to act.
Honey Garlic Chicken is a quick and easy recipe for chicken breasts. The chicken is seared and then simmered in a honey garlic sauce.
Brining or marinating chicken breasts in yogurt can help keep them moist and juicy.
