Blackened Chicken Recipe

Blackened Chicken is a flavorful dish that involves coating chicken breasts with a bold spice blend and cooking them at high heat, typically in a cast-iron skillet, to create a crispy, “blackened” crust. The result is juicy chicken with a smoky, slightly charred exterior.

Blackened Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken:
   • Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
   • Pound them lightly to even thickness for consistent cooking.
2. Make the blackened seasoning:
   • In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
3. Season the chicken:
   • Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil or melted butter.
   • Generously coat both sides of the chicken with the spice mixture, pressing it in so it adheres well.
4. Cook the chicken:
   • Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s very hot.
   • Add a little oil or butter to the skillet to prevent sticking.
   • Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the exterior is dark and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest and serve:
   • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
   • Serve with lemon wedges for added brightness.

This Blackened Chicken pairs well with salads, rice, or grilled vegetables!