Sweet Paprika Chicken

Have you ever seen the movie The Mirror Has Two Faces?  I actually don't remember anything about it except for that Barbra Streisand's character is incredibly passionate about food and loves to make every bite "the perfect bite".  She carefully loads her fork and thoroughly enjoys each tasty morsel.  I get it; I love good food this much too.

This little dish reminded me of Barbra because the ingredients create a pretty fantastic flavor explosion.  And, if you have the patience to form the perfect bites, with a little lime rice, sweet and spicy paprika chicken, and fresh mango, you'll be a very happy camper.  Such a great combo.

SWEET PAPRIKA CHICKEN

• 4 chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
• fresh mango slices 

Place chicken breast between two sheets of parchment paper and pound out the chicken until it is about a half an inch thick.  You can also cut the chicken breast into two thinner pieces if they are thick enough.  

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.  

Pat chicken dry with paper towls and then spread spice mixture onto the chicken breasts.  Use your hands to rub the mixture into the chicken to create an even coating. 

In a large nonstick skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat until hot and rippling.   

Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on how thick the chicken is.  The chicken will register 160 degress on a thermometer when fully cooked.    

NOTE #1:  You may need to cook the chicken in separate batches.

NOTE #2: The chicken will darken quite a bit due to the brown sugar in the spice rub.  Adjust the heat as necessary, but be careful not to overcook it because nobody likes dry chicken.   

Let chicken rest for 5 or so minutes.  

Serve with lime rice and fresh mango slices.  

Source:  Mel's Kitchen Cafe