Sunday, 4 May 2025

Montreal Chicken Recipes

Montreal Chicken Recipes 


Montreal-style chicken recipes bring together the bold flavors of the iconic Montreal steak seasoning—a fragrant blend of garlic, black pepper, paprika, coriander, and dill—with tender, juicy chicken. Originating in Jewish delis in Montreal, this seasoning has crossed culinary borders to become a favorite for grilling, roasting, and marinating.


Here are three outstanding Montreal chicken recipes you’ll want to make again and again:


1. Classic Grilled Montreal Chicken Breasts

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15–20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes


Ingredients:


4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts


2 tablespoons Montreal steak seasoning


2 tablespoons olive oil


1 tablespoon lemon juice


1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)


Fresh parsley or lemon wedges for garnish


Instructions:


In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.


Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the mixture over the chicken and add Montreal seasoning. Rub the seasoning in evenly.


Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge).


Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.


Grill the chicken for 6–8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).


Rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley or lemon.


Flavor Tip: The spice blend’s coarse texture forms a beautiful crust on grilled meat, locking in juices while infusing each bite with savory heat.


Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with grilled vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad.


2. Montreal Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner with Potatoes and Peppers

Serves: 4–6

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35–40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes


Ingredients:


6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs


2 tablespoons Montreal steak seasoning


2 tablespoons olive oil


1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar


1 pound baby potatoes, halved


1 red bell pepper, sliced


1 yellow bell pepper, sliced


1 red onion, sliced


3 cloves garlic, minced


Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)


Instructions:


Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.


In a large bowl, toss the chicken thighs with 1 tablespoon oil, Montreal seasoning, and balsamic vinegar.


In a separate bowl, toss the potatoes, peppers, onion, and garlic with remaining olive oil and a pinch of Montreal seasoning.


Arrange everything in a single layer on the baking sheet. Tuck in fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for added aroma.


Roast for 35–40 minutes, turning the vegetables halfway, until chicken is golden and the juices run clear.


Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.


Flavor Tip: Bone-in chicken thighs offer more flavor and moisture—perfect for high-heat roasting alongside robust vegetables.


Serving Suggestions: Serve right from the sheet pan with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.


3. Creamy Montreal Chicken Pasta Skillet

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes


Ingredients:


2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced


1 tablespoon Montreal steak seasoning


2 tablespoons butter


3 cloves garlic, minced


1 small onion, chopped


1½ cups chicken broth


1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half


8 oz penne or rotini pasta


1 cup grated Parmesan cheese


1 cup baby spinach or chopped kale (optional)


Fresh parsley or basil for garnish


Instructions:


Season the chicken slices with Montreal seasoning.


In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sauté until lightly browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.


In the same skillet, add garlic and onion. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.


Pour in the chicken broth and cream. Stir in pasta and bring to a simmer.


Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed (about 12–15 minutes).


Stir in Parmesan cheese, cooked chicken, and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts and sauce thickens slightly.


Garnish with parsley or basil and serve hot.


Flavor Tip: The seasoning provides just enough spice to balance the creamy sauce and earthy greens without overpowering the dish.


Serving Suggestions: Serve with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.


A Little History: What Is Montreal Seasoning, Anyway?

Montreal steak seasoning traces back to Schwartz’s Deli, a legendary spot in Montreal known for its smoked meat sandwiches. The seasoning is inspired by the dry rub used for pastrami, adapted by broiler cooks for steaks and later chicken.


Though traditionally used for beef, the spice mix’s versatility has made it a go-to for everything from tofu to vegetables—and especially chicken. Its combination of crushed peppercorns, garlic, and aromatic herbs makes it both punchy and comforting.


Montreal Chicken: Meal Prep and Storage Tips

Make Ahead: Marinate chicken up to 24 hours ahead for deeper flavor.


Batch Cooking: Double the sheet pan recipe to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.


Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain texture.


Freezer Friendly: Grilled or baked Montreal chicken freezes well. Cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.


Health Benefits and Nutritional Notes

Using Montreal seasoning as a dry rub or marinade base reduces the need for high-sodium sauces. You also get:


Antioxidant-rich spices like paprika and black pepper.


Garlic’s immune-boosting properties.


Lean protein from chicken breast or thighs.


To keep it even healthier, opt for grilling or baking instead of pan-frying, and serve with whole grains and vegetables.

Whether you're firing up the grill, roasting a hearty dinner, or stirring up a creamy skillet, Montreal-style chicken recipes deliver flavor without fuss. This seasoning transforms basic chicken into something exciting, comforting, and a little bit smoky with minimal prep.


Best of all, it’s endlessly customizable. Add a pinch of cayenne for more heat, a touch of maple syrup for sweetness, or fresh herbs to brighten the dish.


Further Reading 

Hydroponic and Kratky Sweet Potatoes 

https://www.amazon.com/Hydroponic-Kratky-Sweet-Potatoes-Water-Based-ebook/dp/B0F7892GF5/


Strawberry Growing for Kids and Families 

https://www.amazon.com/Strawberry-Growing-Kids-Families-Fruit-ebook/dp/B0F73TV5GZ/


The Cabbage Homestead Journal: Recipes, Remedies & Rotations

https://www.amazon.com/Cabbage-Homestead-Journal-Rotations-Vegetables-ebook/dp/B0F6VYLNNV/


Cabbage Crafts for Kids: Fun Projects With a Farm-to-Art Twist 

https://www.amazon.com/Cabbage-Crafts-Kids-Farm-Art-ebook/dp/B0F6VJV2J3/



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