Blackened Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Blackened Chicken is a flavorful and bold dish that’s perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices to create a crispy, blackened crust. The chicken stays juicy and tender inside, while the exterior adds a smoky, spicy kick. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve it with your favorite sides like rice, vegetables, or a simple salad for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spiciness)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Spice Blend: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
2. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub the spice blend generously over both sides of each chicken breast.
3. Heat the Pan: Heat olive oil or melted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to heat up for about 2 minutes.
4. Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice blackened crust. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve: Serve the blackened chicken with lemon wedges, if desired, and enjoy with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 15-18 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Blackened Chicken: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning blend for extra heat.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like oregano, basil, or rosemary to add depth to the flavor.
• Chicken Thighs: For a juicier option, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
• Grilled Version: You can also cook the blackened chicken on the grill for a smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave, or for a crispy texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but cooking time will be longer. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili flakes for more heat.

Can I use a different cooking method?

Yes, you can also grill the chicken or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes if you prefer.

Is blackened chicken healthy?

Yes, this recipe is relatively healthy since it uses lean chicken and minimal oil. You can also use less oil or butter for a lighter version.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can season the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge to allow the flavors to marinate overnight.

What sides go well with blackened chicken?

Blackened chicken pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes.

Can I use this seasoning for other meats?

Yes, the blackened seasoning works well with fish, shrimp, or even pork chops.

Can I use a non-stick skillet?

Yes, a non-stick skillet works well, but using a cast-iron skillet will give you the best blackened crust.

Can I adjust the salt and pepper?

Yes, feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you prefer less salt or pepper, you can modify the quantities.

Is blackened chicken suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when needed.

Conclusion

Blackened Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings a bold, smoky taste to your dinner table. The spicy seasoning creates a crisp, caramelized crust, while keeping the chicken tender and juicy inside. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or as part of a larger meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

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