Blackened Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Blackened Chicken is the ultimate way to add flavor without fuss. The spice blend creates a crispy, blackened crust that locks in moisture and adds tons of depth. It’s versatile enough to serve over salads, in sandwiches, or alongside your favorite sides. Plus, it’s naturally low in carbs, high in protein, and comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dried thyme
• Dried oregano
• Cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry and pound to even thickness if needed.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil or melted butter, then coat evenly with the seasoning mix on both sides.
4. Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until very hot.
5. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until a dark crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 22 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken thighs for a juicier cut and slightly richer flavor.
• Add a splash of lime juice or hot sauce for extra zing.
• Grill the chicken instead of pan-searing for a smoky outdoor flavor.
• Serve over rice, pasta, or in wraps for a full meal.
• Make it dairy-free by using oil instead of butter.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in short intervals until warmed through.
This chicken also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What does “blackened” mean in cooking?

“Blackened” refers to a cooking technique where food is coated in spices and seared at high heat to create a dark, flavorful crust.

Is blackened chicken spicy?

It has a bit of heat from cayenne pepper, but you can adjust the spice level to your preference.

Can I use a store-bought blackened seasoning?

Yes, just ensure it doesn’t have added salt if you’re seasoning the chicken separately.

Do I need a cast iron skillet?

A cast iron pan is ideal for even searing, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will work.

What should I serve with blackened chicken?

Great options include rice, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, salad, or roasted vegetables.

Can I make this recipe on the grill?

Yes, grill over medium-high heat for the same time, flipping once for even charring.

Can I use this seasoning on other proteins?

Absolutely! It works well on shrimp, fish, pork, or even tofu.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Is this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and high in protein—perfect for keto or low-carb diets.

Can I use chicken tenders or cutlets?

Yes, just reduce the cooking time since they’re thinner cuts.

Conclusion

Blackened Chicken is a quick, flavorful, and versatile recipe that adds a spicy twist to your dinner lineup. With its smoky, charred crust and juicy interior, it’s a simple way to elevate chicken breast without much effort. Whether served with fresh sides or tucked into tacos, wraps, or salads, this bold dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite.

Blackened Chicken Recipe

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Blackened Chicken is a spicy, smoky, and flavorful dish made by coating chicken breasts in a Cajun-style spice blend and searing them to form a deliciously charred crust. It’s quick, healthy, and incredibly versatile.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan-Seared
• Cuisine: Cajun

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 to 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry and pound to even thickness if needed.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the chicken with olive oil or melted butter, then coat both sides with the seasoning mix.
4. Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until very hot.
5. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until a dark crust forms and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
7. Serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

• Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level.
• Let the pan get hot before adding chicken to ensure proper sear.
• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
• This chicken is great in tacos, wraps, or over salads and rice bowls.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 100mg