Easy Blackened Chicken Recipe
Introduction
This easy blackened chicken is full of smoky, bold flavors and comes together quickly for a satisfying meal. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to juicy perfection, it’s a simple recipe that elevates everyday chicken breasts.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1/2 lb. each)
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning herbs
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons canola oil (divided)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
- Step 2: In a shallow dish, whisk together the smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, Italian seasoning, dried thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Step 3: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Coat both sides with 2 tablespoons of canola oil, then press the seasoning mixture onto both sides to fully coat the chicken.
- Step 4: Heat a large cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot and just starting to smoke, about 5 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of canola oil and brush it over the skillet surface.
- Step 5: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds on each side to develop a blackened crust.
- Step 6: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Step 7: Remove the chicken from the oven, transfer to a platter, and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra smoky flavor, use smoked paprika rather than regular paprika.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
- Try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
- If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, a heavy oven-safe skillet will work as well.
Storage
Store any leftover blackened chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through to keep the chicken juicy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used. Cooking time may vary slightly, so check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safety.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to ensure doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F for perfectly cooked chicken without drying out.
PrintEasy Blackened Chicken Recipe
This Easy Blackened Chicken recipe offers a flavorful and spicy twist on classic grilled chicken, featuring a smoky blend of paprika, cumin, cayenne, and herbs. Quick to prepare and cook, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner and results in juicy, tender chicken with a delicious blackened crust.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1/2 lb. each)
Seasoning Mix
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning herbs
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Oil
- 3 tablespoons canola oil (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for finishing the chicken after searing.
- Mix seasonings: In a shallow dish, whisk together smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, Italian seasoning herbs, dried thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and ground black pepper to create the blackening spice mix.
- Season chicken: Pat dry each chicken breast thoroughly with paper towels. Coat both sides of the chicken with 2 tablespoons of canola oil. Then, evenly press the seasoning mixture onto both sides of the chicken breasts to ensure a good coating.
- Heat skillet: Preheat a large cast-iron skillet over high heat until it starts to smoke, about 5 minutes. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of canola oil and brush it evenly over the skillet surface.
- Blacken chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet, cooking them for about 30 seconds on each side to form a blackened crust.
- Finish cooking in oven: Transfer the skillet with the chicken to the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink inside and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Rest and serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the chicken to a platter. Cover with foil and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving, allowing juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet is very hot before adding the chicken to achieve proper blackening.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for safe cooking.
- Resting the chicken after cooking helps retain moisture and enhances flavor.
- This recipe pairs well with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Keywords: blackened chicken, spicy chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, skillet chicken, smoked paprika chicken, quick chicken recipe
