If you’re an air fryer fan, this Ultimate Hummus Crusted Chicken recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s a simple, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy hummus crust, delivering a deliciously crispy texture without any fuss. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this recipe will have you savoring every bite.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and prepare a large baking dish or two smaller ones with cooking spray.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large bowl, toss the chopped zucchini, squash, and onion with olive oil until they are evenly coated, then season with salt and pepper.
- Place the vegetables in an even layer at the bottom of the baking dish. Lay the chicken breasts on top, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- Spread hummus over each chicken breast so they are fully covered. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the chicken and vegetables.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika or sumac over the dish, and if desired, place thin lemon slices between the chicken and vegetables.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. Serve immediately.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 yellow squash, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 lemons
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or sumac
FAQ
- What is hummus-crusted chicken?
- Hummus-crusted chicken is a baked chicken dish where hummus is used as a flavorful coating or sauce on the chicken, which forms a light crust as it bakes.
- Can I use homemade hummus for this recipe?
- Absolutely! You can use either homemade or store-bought hummus. Choose your favorite flavor to customize the dish to your taste.
- What vegetables work well with this dish?
- Common choices include zucchini, yellow squash, and onion, but you can substitute or add other vegetables depending on your preference.
- How long does it take to prepare and cook this meal?
- The preparation time is under 10 minutes, and the baking time is approximately 25-30 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal.
- Can I add other seasonings or ingredients to the recipe?
- Yes, feel free to enhance the dish with additional herbs, balsamic vinegar, or a splash of white wine. Smoked paprika or sumac can also be used for extra flavor.
- Is it necessary to use lemon in this recipe?
- While lemon juice adds a fresh and tangy flavor to the dish, it’s optional. You can adjust the amount to your liking or omit it if desired.
Tips
- Utilise a Large Baking Dish: To ensure even cooking, use a large baking dish that allows the chicken and vegetables to be spread out in a single layer. This prevents overcrowding and ensures both the chicken and veggies cook thoroughly.
- Generously Season the Chicken: Before adding the hummus, make sure to season the chicken breasts well with salt and pepper. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Add Lemon for Extra Zing: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables before baking to infuse the dish with a refreshing and tangy flavor. Consider placing lemon slices between the chicken and veggies for added zest.
- Experiment with Hummus Flavors: While classic chickpea hummus works beautifully, feel free to experiment with different hummus flavors like roasted red pepper or garlic to customize the dish to your taste preferences.
Equipment
- Large Baking Dish – If you don’t have a large baking dish, you might want to purchase one to accommodate the chicken and vegetables.
- Cooking Spray – While it might be found in many kitchens, if you don’t have it, you might need to purchase cooking spray to prepare the baking dish.
