Sweet and Spicy Smoked Paprika Chicken

This dish beautifully marries the sweetness of dark brown sugar with the savory heat of smoked paprika and cayenne pepper, creating a flavorful chicken marinade that's both traditional and creatively bold. The balance of spices brings out the natural flavors of the chicken, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, meeting a variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup dark brown sugar
• 1 Tablespoon coarse sea salt
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the dark brown sugar, coarse sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard powder, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lime juice. Add the spice mixture to the oil and lime juice, stirring until a paste forms.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
4. Preheat the grill or oven to 375°F (190°C). If grilling, cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If baking, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.