Food Recipe

Table of Contents

Kiki’s 21 Spice Chicken: A Symphony of Flavor

The aroma of spices, when expertly blended, can transport me back to kitchens both grand and humble, each with its own unique culinary magic. When this particular recipe first graced the pages of our local newspaper, I was intrigued by the promise of its name, “21 Spice Chicken.” While I hadn’t yet had the pleasure of tasting it, the thought of such a nuanced spice blend immediately sparked my imagination, hinting at layers of flavor that go far beyond the ordinary. It’s a culinary mystery that beckoned, a dish I knew I had to explore for myself.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Yield: 6 servings
Dietary Type: Naturally Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

This recipe is a testament to the power of a single, well-crafted seasoning blend, allowing the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables to shine through. The star, of course, is the Trader Joe’s 21 Salute Seasoning, a salt-free marvel that brings a complex depth of flavor without overwhelming the palate.

6 chicken thighs
Trader Joe’s 21 Salute Seasoning (generous amount, to taste)
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt (optional, to taste, for asparagus)
Pepper (optional, to taste, for asparagus)

A Note on Trader Joe’s 21 Salute Seasoning: This particular blend is a fantastic shortcut to an incredibly flavorful dish. It’s a vibrant mix of onions, garlic, celery seed, caraway seed, basil, parsley, dill, paprika, turmeric, cumin, coriander, rosemary, marjoram, oregano, thyme, black pepper, white pepper, mustard seed, ginger, celery seed, and bay leaf. If you cannot find Trader Joe’s 21 Salute Seasoning, a high-quality salt-free herb and spice blend like Mrs. Dash Original Blend can serve as a suitable substitute, though the exact flavor profile may vary slightly. The key is to use a blend that offers complexity without added sodium.

Equipment Needed

Baking sheet
Oven

Instructions

This dish is wonderfully straightforward, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight meal that still feels special. The method focuses on simplicity, allowing the vibrant flavors of the spices to do the heavy lifting.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This consistent, moderate temperature is crucial for ensuring the chicken thighs cook through evenly and the asparagus becomes tender-crisp.
Begin by preparing the chicken thighs. Rinse them under cool running water and then pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is vital for achieving a pleasant texture and allowing the seasoning to adhere beautifully.
Arrange the dried chicken thighs on a greased baking sheet. Ensure there’s a little space between each thigh so they roast rather than steam.
Now, generously sprinkle the chicken thighs with Trader Joe’s 21 Salute Seasoning. Don’t be shy; this is where all the magic happens. Ensure each piece is coated, both on the top and underneath if you can manage.
Roast the seasoned chicken in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven.
While the chicken has been roasting, prepare the asparagus. Trim off the woody ends.
Place the trimmed asparagus directly onto the baking sheet alongside the partially cooked chicken.
Drizzle the asparagus with the olive oil, then sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper to your preference.
Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the asparagus is tender-crisp. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Expert Tips & Tricks

The beauty of Kiki’s 21 Spice Chicken lies in its inherent simplicity, but a few chef-driven touches can elevate it even further.

For Crispier Skin: If you desire a crispier skin on your chicken thighs, you can broil them for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking, keeping a very close eye to prevent burning. Alternatively, a quick sear in a hot skillet before baking can achieve this as well, though it adds an extra step.
Asparagus Perfection: To ensure your asparagus is cooked to your ideal tenderness, keep an eye on it. It should be vibrant green and tender but still offer a slight bite. Thicker spears may need a minute or two longer, while thinner ones might cook faster.
Even Cooking: Make sure your chicken thighs are roughly the same size for uniform cooking. If you have a mix of very large and small thighs, you might consider removing the smaller ones a few minutes earlier.
Resting the Chicken: While not strictly necessary for thighs, allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven can help redistribute the juices, ensuring a more succulent bite.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Kiki’s 21 Spice Chicken is a wonderfully versatile dish that shines on its own or as part of a larger meal.

Serve the chicken thighs hot, arranged attractively on a platter alongside the bright green asparagus. A squeeze of fresh lemon can add a lovely zing if you like. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side of rice, quinoa, or a light salad.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) or in a skillet over low heat to preserve texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can sometimes toughen the chicken.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	238.1 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	169 g
Total Fat	18.8 g	28%
Saturated Fat	4.6 g	23%
Cholesterol	79 mg	26%
Sodium	71.5 mg	2%
Total Carbohydrate	0 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0 g	0%
Sugars	0 g	0%
Protein	16.2 g	32%

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

While the original recipe is a triumph of simplicity, a few creative adjustments can cater to different tastes or dietary needs.

Vegetable Medley: Feel free to swap out the asparagus for other quick-cooking vegetables like broccoli florets, bell pepper strips, or green beans. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they reach your desired tenderness.
Spicier Kick: If you enjoy a bit more heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can be added to the spice blend before applying it to the chicken.
Herbaceous Boost: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro can be sprinkled over the finished dish for an extra layer of freshness.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily, so start checking them for doneness after about 15-20 minutes.

Q: Is it essential to use Trader Joe’s 21 Salute Seasoning?
A: While this specific blend is ideal, any high-quality salt-free herb and spice mix will work. The goal is a complex, layered flavor profile without added salt.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice blend before seasoning the chicken, or serve with a spicy sauce on the side.

Q: What if I don’t have olive oil?
A: Avocado oil or any other neutral high-heat cooking oil would be a suitable substitute for drizzling over the asparagus.

Q: Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
A: You can season the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours, but it’s best to cook it fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Kiki’s 21 Spice Chicken is a delightful demonstration of how a few thoughtful ingredients can create a dish that is both impressive and incredibly easy to prepare. It’s the kind of meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table, proving that simplicity can indeed be spectacular. I encourage you to try this recipe, allowing the fragrant 21 Salute Seasoning to work its magic. It’s a perfect dish for a casual weeknight dinner, a backyard barbecue, or even a light and flavorful lunch. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the ease with which this culinary gem comes together.

Kiki’s 21 Spice Chicken Recipe