Blackened Chicken with Mango Avocado Salsa & Quinoa

Blackened Chicken with Mango Avocado Salsa & Quinoa

A vibrant, flavor-packed bowl featuring smoky blackened chicken, fluffy quinoa, and fresh mango avocado salsa. Perfect for a healthy, protein-rich meal!

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

🔥 For the Blackened Chicken:

• 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tbsp olive oil

Blackening Spice Mix:

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to spice level)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

🥭 For the Mango Avocado Salsa:

• 1 ripe mango, diced

• 1 ripe avocado, diced

• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped

• ¼ cup red bell pepper, diced

• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

• Juice of 1 lime

• Salt to taste

🌾 For the Quinoa:

• 1 cup quinoa (rinsed well)

• 2 cups water or chicken broth

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

1. Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water.

2. In a saucepan, bring water (or broth) to a boil.

3. Add quinoa and salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.

4. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.

5. Fluff with a fork and stir in olive oil if desired.

Step 2: Prepare the Mango Avocado Salsa

1. In a bowl, combine mango, avocado, red onion, and bell pepper.

2. Add lime juice, cilantro, and salt.

3. Gently toss and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 3: Season & Cook the Chicken

1. Pat chicken dry with paper towels.

2. Mix all blackening spices in a small bowl.

3. Rub olive oil over chicken, then coat evenly with spice mix.

4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.

5. Cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side until a dark crust forms and internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).

6. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.

🍽️ Assemble the Bowl

1. Spoon quinoa into serving bowls.

2. Arrange sliced blackened chicken on top.

3. Generously add mango avocado salsa.

4. Garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime.

💡 Pro Tips

• For extra smokiness, cook chicken in a cast iron skillet.

• Add jalapeño to salsa for more heat.

• Meal prep friendly: store components separately for up to 3 days.

• For a low-carb option, replace quinoa with cauliflower rice.

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I grill the chicken instead?
Yes! Grill over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes per side.

Q: How do I keep avocado from browning?
Extra lime juice helps slow oxidation.

Q: Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Blackened shrimp works perfectly with this salsa.