Description
Blackened Chicken is a flavorful, spicy chicken recipe with roots in Cajun cuisine. A perfect balance of heat and smokiness comes from a homemade blackening spice blend, which forms a beautifully charred crust when cooked. This recipe is quick, requires minimal prep, and delivers juicy, restaurant-worthy chicken right on your stovetop or grill.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Blackening Spice
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Chicken
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb/450g total)
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to form your blackening seasoning blend.
- Pound the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Pound gently to an even thickness (about 3/4 inch). This ensures even cooking and juicier results.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Generously sprinkle the blackening spice mix on both sides, pressing to adhere.
- Preheat the Pan: Place a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Allow it to get very hot—this is key for the blackened crust.
- Cook the Chicken: Carefully add the chicken breasts to the hot pan. Cook without moving for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the crust is deeply browned and the chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Transfer cooked chicken to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust cayenne for more or less heat to suit your taste.
- If grilling, lightly oil the grates and cook over medium-high heat.
- This recipe also works with thighs or tenders; cooking time may differ.
- Pair with rice, potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers are great in wraps or sandwiches.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
