Blackened Chicken Recipe – Cajun-Spiced Chicken with Smoky Flavor & Crispy Crust
This Blackened Chicken Recipe is a bold and flavorful dish that brings Cajun-inspired spice to your dinner table. Coated in a smoky blend of paprika, garlic, cayenne, and herbs, the chicken is seared to perfection for a crispy crust and juicy center. It’s quick to make, packed with protein, and perfect for pairing with rice, salads, or roasted veggies. Whether you're meal prepping or cooking for the family, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes.
Equipment
- Cast iron skillet or grill pan
- Tongs or spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil (plus more for the pan)
- 1 tbsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ½ tsp brown sugar or cumin for added depth
Instructions
- Prep the chicken: Pat chicken dry and pound to even thickness if needed.
- Make the spice rub: In a bowl, mix all spices together.
- Coat the chicken: Rub chicken with olive oil, then coat evenly with the spice mix on both sides.
- Heat the skillet: Place a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until smoking hot. Add a small amount of oil.
- Sear the chicken: Cook chicken for 3–4 minutes per side without moving, until a dark crust forms.
- Optional oven finish: For thick cuts, transfer skillet to a 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 5–7 minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and serve: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve hot or store for later.
Notes
- Use a cast-iron skillet for best results—it retains heat and helps form a perfect crust.
- Adjust cayenne to control heat level.
- For a smoky twist, use smoked paprika and add a pinch of cumin.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Great for salads, wraps, tacos, or served with roasted veggies and rice.
- For a dairy-free, gluten-free meal, ensure your spices are free from additives.