Blackened Chicken is a dish bursting with bold flavors and a tantalizingly crispy crust. This classic Cajun-inspired recipe features chicken breasts coated in a robust blend of spices, then seared to perfection in a hot skillet. The high heat creates a deliciously charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Whether served over a bed of rice, alongside sautéed vegetables, or in a fresh salad, Blackened Chicken adds a spicy, savory kick to any meal. Its simplicity and depth of flavor make it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Spice Blend:
- In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to create the blackening spice blend.
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Coat each chicken breast evenly with olive oil, then generously rub the spice blend all over the chicken, ensuring an even coating on both sides.
- Preheat the Skillet:
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it is smoking hot.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is blackened on the outside and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). If the skillet becomes too hot, reduce the heat to medium to prevent burning.
- Rest the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve:
- Slice the blackened chicken and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Enjoy this bold and delicious Blackened Chicken with your favorite sides for a meal that is sure to excite your taste buds and leave you craving more.
