The recessed have nothing to do with the island lighting. Nor does under cabinet lighting which is also a factor in the overall design and function. You don't want to cook or prep in shadow. I like a single fixture in this instance.

Quite difficult to advise without knowing a single thing about the kitchen regarding style or feel.

Exactly the can lights should actually be installed before you choose the other light and it depends on the light you choose whether it is one large one . I like one bigger one over a square island if that helps

For reference this is the cabinet style and color we ordered as well as the counter and back splash style we are going for.

I'd be looking for a shallow drum. Force the light down onto counter. Comes 20 inch diameter. Note it is shallow ( five inch high shade ) and very adjustable for height.

https://www.ylighting.com/convertible-drum-pendant-light-by-kichler-uu388329.html#cgid=%0AYLLIG4%0A&prefn1=StandardColor&prefn2=Width&prefv1=White&prefv2=13%2B-%2B24%2BInches&start=0&tileIndex=5

You could be considering two different lighting requirements- task and ambient. I'd carefully look at a dimmable single fixture if you want that to handle both the light you need to work at the island and how you want to set the mood when the island is used as an eating area. Additionally a dimmable fixture could work if you have kids doing homework at the island. So an led fixture of 1500 lumens or about 13 watts of led could work. One with a decorative lower wattage led or even a decorative incandescent bulb would not meet both needs. If your preferred fixture is like that I'd add recessed leds on at least two sides(frig and range) spaced in from the edge of the counter 10-12" or so to avoid shadows. On a dimmer.

I have a similar Orb chandelier over my breakfast table. It looks great, but I would not want that type of light, and the shadows it creates, over an island where I might want to do some actual kitchen work. Maybe both a chandelier and recessed lights over the island, so you can choose what type of lighting is switched on, depending on the task and mood.

Good point on the shadows. If we go that route will definitely have to make sure we have additional recessed lights for the island.

If you click that link I gave you? You will find it a lot of light and also dimmable. Orbs, lanterns? They DISPERSE light all over. It's a bit diluted! You want it down ... Not out .. And also decorative and warm

The recessed lights should also be over the island so they offer enough task lighting on their own. Then use one large fixture to provide ambient light and interest to the space.

I hate too many dangles in a work space, after all that is what a kitchen is. I think One pretty light over a square space give the eye a place to rest.

hey go for multiple lights