Spicy Blackened Chicken: Easy Weeknight Recipe (Print Version)
Master spicy blackened chicken with this simple recipe. Achieve a crispy, flavorful crust and juicy interior in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 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 (about 4 breasts)
02 -
2 tbsp olive oil
→ The Fiery Blackening Rub
03 -
1 tbsp smoked paprika
04 -
1 tbsp garlic powder
05 -
1 tbsp onion powder
06 -
1 tsp cayenne pepper
07 -
1 tsp dried oregano
08 -
1 tsp dried thyme
09 -
1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
10 -
1/2 tsp white pepper
11 -
1/4 tsp ground cumin
12 -
1/4 tsp ground coriander
13 -
1 and 1/2 tsp kosher salt
→ Aromatic Finishing Touches
14 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
15 -
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
16 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Pat dry 1 and 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts. In a small bowl, combine 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp white pepper, 1/4 tsp ground cumin, 1/4 tsp ground coriander, and 1 and 1/2 tsp kosher salt. This forms your Fiery Blackening Rub for the Spicy Blackened Chicken Recipe.
02 -
Lightly coat each of the 1 and 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts with 2 tbsp olive oil. Generously dredge both sides of the chicken in the prepared Fiery Blackening Rub, pressing gently to ensure the spices adhere well. This crucial step builds the intense flavor for your Spicy Blackened Chicken Recipe.
03 -
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until very hot, almost smoking. This high heat is essential for achieving the characteristic 'blackened' crust. Do not add any additional oil to the pan at this stage.
04 -
Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot, dry skillet. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until a dark, crusty sear forms and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary for the best Spicy Blackened Chicken Recipe.
05 -
Once the chicken is cooked through, reduce heat to low. Add 2 tbsp unsalted butter to the pan, allowing it to melt and baste the chicken. Squeeze 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice over the chicken, swirling it with the melted butter to create a flavorful pan sauce.
06 -
Transfer the cooked Spicy Blackened Chicken Recipe to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juiciness. Garnish generously with 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, before serving immediately.
# Notes:
01 -
For even cooking, you can pound the thickest part of the chicken breasts to a uniform 3/4-inch thickness before seasoning.
02 -
Store any leftover Spicy Blackened Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to prevent drying out.
03 -
If you prefer a milder spice level, reduce the cayenne pepper to 1/2 tsp or omit it entirely. Chicken thighs can also be used for a juicier result, adjusting cooking time as needed.
04 -
This flavorful chicken pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, rice pilaf, or roasted vegetables. It's also excellent sliced for tacos, sandwiches, or salads.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Cast iron skillet
02 -
Tongs
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Sharp knife
05 -
Small bowl
06 -
Measuring spoons
07 -
Measuring cups
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 420 kcal
Total Fat: 19 g
Total Carbohydrate: 6 g
Protein: 51 g