Description
This Blackened Chicken recipe features juicy boneless skinless chicken breasts coated in a flavorful blend of smoked paprika, cayenne, and herbs, then seared in a hot cast iron skillet until perfectly blackened and cooked through. With its bold spices and buttery finish, this dish is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner that packs a punch of Cajun-inspired flavor.
Ingredients
Chicken and Spice Rub
- 4 (6 oz each) boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to an even 1/2-inch thickness
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 3/4 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Cooking and Garnish
- 1 Tbsp light olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 Tbsp butter, melted
- 2 tsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the spice rub: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the smoked paprika, sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Season the chicken: Evenly sprinkle the spice mixture on both sides of each pounded chicken breast, coating them thoroughly.
- Preheat the skillet: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the light olive oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the skillet evenly.
- Cook the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook without moving until the bottom is slightly blackened, about 4 minutes. Flip the chicken and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 4 minutes more. Reduce the heat to medium if the chicken is darkening too quickly before cooking through.
- Finish and serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to serving plates and drizzle with melted butter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures even cooking and a juicy texture.
- The cayenne pepper adds heat—adjust its amount according to your spice preference.
- Use a cast iron skillet for best blackening effect and even heat distribution.
- Letting the spice rub sit on the chicken for 10 minutes before cooking can enhance flavor, though this step is optional.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking or drying out the chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Cajun
