The Dish | Grilled Chicken with Romesco Sauce

The Romesco sauce brings a zesty kick to any meal and — in addition to poultry — is also perfect for roasted vegetables and seafood. (This week I’m featuring it on King salmon as part of a multi-course dinner.)

INGREDIENTS:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless chicken breasts (skin on)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2  teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1  teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

For the Romesco Sauce:

• 2 medium roasted red bell peppers (jarred or fresh roasted)
• 1 roma tomato, quartered
• ¼ cup slivered almonds, toasted
• 2 cloves garlic 
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼  teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground cumin powder 

DIRECTIONS:

Prepare the chicken:

1. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, fresh garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and oregano.
2. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
3. Allow chicken to marinate for up to an hour or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor. 
4. Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
5. Grill chicken for 6–8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. Skin should be crispy. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. 

Prepare the Romesco Sauce:

1. Combine the roasted red bell peppers, tomato, toasted almonds, garlic, red wine vinegar, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes in a blender or food processor.
2. Pulse until the mixture begins to come together, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust consistency with a splash of water if needed.

Serve:

• Plate the grilled chicken and spoon the Romesco sauce generously on top or serve it on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs. 
• Pair with roasted vegetables, crusty bread, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
• Enjoy!