Spice Up Your Life: The Ultimate Guide to Using Montreal Seasoning on Chicken

Table of Contents

• What Is Montreal Seasoning?
• Why Use It on Chicken?
• How to Use Montreal Seasoning on Chicken
• Top 5 Montreal Seasonings for Chicken
• Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best One
• Easy Chicken Recipes with Montreal Seasoning
• Conclusion

What Is Montreal Seasoning?

Montreal seasoning, sometimes called "steak spice," is a bold and aromatic blend originating from—where else?—Montreal, Canada. Known for its use in smoked meat sandwiches and grilled meats, this seasoning brings together peppercorns, garlic, coriander, paprika, and other spices into one punchy mix.

While it was originally created to season Montreal-style smoked meat (like brisket), home cooks and chefs have found that it works wonders on poultry too—especially chicken.

The Core Ingredients

Ingredient	Flavor Contribution
Black Pepper	Pungent, earthy heat
Garlic	Umami depth and savory kick
Coriander	Citrusy warmth
Paprika	Smoky sweetness and color
Fennel or Mustard Seed	Bitter complexity

Why Use Montreal Seasoning on Chicken?

Chicken can be bland if not seasoned properly. Enter Montreal seasoning—a flavor bomb that transforms ordinary poultry into something unforgettable.

Here's why it’s perfect:

• Layers of Flavor: Unlike single-note seasonings, Montreal spice offers a symphony of taste notes.
• Savory Depth: Garlic and pepper create a rich umami backbone that complements the mildness of chicken.
• Grill-Friendly: Ideal for grilling, roasting, or pan-searing, it adds an irresistible crust and aroma.

Comparison: Montreal vs. Other Chicken Seasonings

Seasoning Type	Flavor Profile	Best Used For
Montreal Seasoning	Peppery, garlicky, smoky	Grilled, roasted, seared chicken
Italian Herb Mix	Herby, fresh, citrusy	Pasta, salads, baked chicken
Tex-Mex Blend	Spicy, smoky, chili-forward	Tacos, burritos, enchiladas

How to Use Montreal Seasoning on Chicken

Using Montreal seasoning couldn’t be simpler. Here are some foolproof ways to make sure every bite bursts with flavor:

Method 1: Dry Rub

• Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
• Evenly sprinkle Montreal seasoning over both sides.
• Let sit for 15–30 minutes before cooking.

Method 2: With Oil or Butter

• Mix Montreal seasoning with olive oil or melted butter.
• Rub mixture under the skin or on top of the chicken.
• Perfect for oven-roasted or grilled birds.

Method 3: Marinade

• Combine Montreal seasoning with lemon juice, yogurt, or vinegar.
• Marinate chicken for 1–4 hours in the fridge.
• Ideal for juicy grilled chicken kebabs or thighs.

Top 5 Montreal Seasonings for Chicken

If you're ready to level up your spice game, here are five top picks tailored for chicken lovers:

1. McCormick Gourmet Montreal Steak Seasoning

• Features: Balanced blend of garlic, black pepper, paprika, and coriander.
• Advantages: Widely available, affordable, and consistent flavor.
• Use Cases: Perfect for quick weeknight meals or grilling.
• Target Audience: Beginners and casual cooks.
• Occasions: Weekday dinners, BBQs, family meals.

2. Les Épices de Cru Montreal Steak Spice

• Features: Authentic Montreal brand with whole-spice grind.
• Advantages: Bold flavor, artisanal quality, slight heat.
• Use Cases: Ideal for grilled chicken or steakhouse vibes at home.
• Target Audience: Foodies and serious home chefs.
• Occasions: Special dinners, dinner parties, gourmet grilling.

3. Badia Montreal Seasoning

• Features: Slightly more salt-heavy than others, but still flavorful.
• Advantages: Great value pack size, easy to find in most grocery stores.
• Use Cases: Good for bulk seasoning needs like wings or skewers.
• Target Audience: Home cooks, budget-conscious families.
• Occasions: Game days, cookouts, potlucks.

4. Spice Hunter Organic Montreal Seasoning

• Features: USDA organic certified with all-natural ingredients.
• Advantages: Clean label, free from additives or preservatives.
• Use Cases: Health-focused cooking, clean eating plans.
• Target Audience: Health enthusiasts, parents, wellness-focused chefs.
• Occasions: Meal prep, healthy dinners, fitness-minded lifestyles.

5. DIY Homemade Montreal Seasoning

• Features: Customize the heat and balance to your taste.
• Advantages: Cost-effective, no fillers, full control over ingredients.
• Use Cases: Cooking shows, meal prepping, gifting homemade blends.
• Target Audience: Hobbyists, culinary students, DIY lovers.
• Occasions: Gift giving, personal enjoyment, recipe experimenting.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Montreal Seasoning for You

When shopping for Montreal seasoning, consider the following factors to ensure you pick the right one for your cooking style and flavor preferences:

1. Ingredient Quality

Check for real spices—no artificial flavors or anti-caking agents. If possible, go for organic or non-GMO options.

2. Salt Content

Some brands add extra salt for preservation. If you’re watching sodium intake, look for low-sodium or salt-free versions.

3. Heat Level

Want a bit more fire? Look for blends that include crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne. Want it milder? Stick with standard recipes without added heat.

4. Grind Texture

Different textures affect how the seasoning sticks to chicken. Coarse blends offer more texture and crunch; fine ones melt into sauces better.

5. Brand Reputation

Stick with trusted names unless you're feeling adventurous. Local spice shops or artisanal brands might offer unique regional twists.

6. Price Point

While premium blends are nice, there are many high-quality options at mid-range prices. Consider usage frequency when evaluating cost per ounce.

Easy Chicken Recipes with Montreal Seasoning

Ready to turn that seasoning into deliciousness? Here are a few simple yet impressive recipes to get you started:

1. Montreal-Spiced Chicken Skillet

• Ingredients: Chicken thighs, onion, bell pepper, Montreal seasoning, olive oil, broth.
• Method: Sauté veggies, season chicken, brown, simmer everything together for 30 mins. Serve with rice or bread.

2. Smoked Chicken Wings with Montreal Rub

• Ingredients: Chicken wings, Montreal seasoning, applewood chips, barbecue sauce (optional).
• Method: Toss wings in seasoning, smoke at 225°F for 1 hour, finish on high heat. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dip.

3. One-Pan Lemon Montreal Chicken

• Ingredients: Chicken breasts, lemon slices, garlic, white wine, Montreal seasoning, thyme.
• Method: Bake everything together at 375°F for 35–40 minutes. Juicy, fragrant, and restaurant-worthy!

4. Montreal Chicken Tacos

• Ingredients: Boneless chicken thighs, taco shells, avocado, lime, cilantro, red onion.
• Method: Grill or sauté seasoned chicken, shred, then load tacos with toppings. Add a squeeze of lime for freshness.

5. Sheet Pan Montreal Chicken & Veggies

• Ingredients: Chicken drumsticks, baby potatoes, carrots, Montreal seasoning, olive oil.
• Method: Toss all ingredients, roast at 400°F until golden. Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.

Conclusion

Making the leap from plain chicken to perfectly seasoned bird status has never been easier—and Montreal seasoning is your secret weapon. Whether you're grilling, baking, or tossing chicken onto tacos, this versatile spice blend brings bold, complex flavor without needing a chef’s training.

From store-bought convenience to crafting your own custom blend, there's a Montreal seasoning solution for every palate and budget. And with our list of top picks, handy tips, and easy recipes, you're all set to transform your next chicken dish into a showstopper.

So go ahead—sprinkle generously, savor deeply, and let your chicken shine!