Spicy Blackened Chicken: Bold & Flavorful Dinner (Print Version)
Spicy Blackened Chicken delivers a fiery kick and crispy, seasoned crust. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or entertaining.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 12 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Cajun
Dietary: Gluten-Free
# Ingredients:
→ The Juicy Chicken Foundation
01 -
1 and 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
4 tbsp unsalted butter
03 -
2 tbsp olive oil
→ The Fiery Blackening Rub
04 -
1 tbsp smoked paprika
05 -
1 and 1/2 tsp garlic powder
06 -
1 and 1/2 tsp onion powder
07 -
1 tsp dried oregano
08 -
1 tsp dried thyme
09 -
1 tsp cayenne pepper
10 -
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
11 -
1 and 1/2 tsp sea salt
12 -
1 tsp light brown sugar
→ Aromatic Finishing Touches
13 -
1 whole lemon
14 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
# Instructions:
01 -
Pound the 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts to an even 3/4-inch thickness for uniform cooking. In a small bowl, combine 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1½ tsp garlic powder, 1½ tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1½ tsp sea salt, and 1 tsp light brown sugar.
02 -
Generously coat all sides of the chicken breasts with the prepared spice rub. Press the rub firmly onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well, creating the robust flavor foundation for your delicious Spicy Blackened Chicken Recipe. Set aside briefly.
03 -
Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot, almost smoking. Add 2 tbsp olive oil and 4 tbsp unsalted butter to the pan, swirling to coat. The butter should melt and begin to foam, indicating readiness for blackening.
04 -
Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for 4-6 minutes, or until a deep, dark, crust forms and the chicken is easily released from the pan. This creates the signature blackening for your Spicy Blackened Chicken Recipe.
05 -
Flip the chicken breasts and cook for another 4-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) with an instant-read thermometer. Adjust heat if necessary to prevent burning while ensuring thorough cooking.
06 -
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. Squeeze the juice from 1 whole lemon over the chicken and sprinkle with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped. Slice and serve your perfect Spicy Blackened Chicken Recipe immediately.
# Notes:
01 -
For the best blackening, use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet and ensure it's smoking hot before adding the chicken. Good ventilation is key!
02 -
Leftover Spicy Blackened Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It's great cold in salads or sandwiches.
03 -
Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level. For a milder version, reduce or omit it; for extra heat, add a bit more!
04 -
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, or even in tacos and wraps for a versatile meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Cast iron skillet
02 -
Mixing bowls
03 -
Tongs
04 -
Cutting board
05 -
Meat thermometer
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 375 kcal
Total Fat: 23 g
Total Carbohydrate: 6 g
Protein: 36 g