Flavors Worth Savoring
Blackened Chicken
If you’re craving a dish that’s packed with bold, smoky flavors and a touch of heat, blackened chicken is the answer. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or a special weekend meal. With a crispy, charred crust and juicy, tender chicken, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Recipe Overview
| Dish Type | Main Course |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 4 servings |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cooking Time | 15 minutes |
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Calories | Approximately 300 kcal per serving |
Ingredients for Blackened Chicken
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Spice Blend:
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step ensures the seasoning adheres well and helps achieve the desired crispy crust.
- Rub each chicken breast with olive oil on all sides.
Step 2: Make the Spice Blend
- In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
- Generously coat each chicken breast with the spice blend, ensuring an even layer for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s smoking hot. This high heat is key to achieving the blackened effect.
- Place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the spices form a dark crust and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Blackened Chicken
Serve blackened chicken with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For a low-carb option, pair it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. The bold flavors of the chicken complement almost any side dish.
Tips and Tricks
Ingredient Notes:
- Smoked Paprika: Adds depth and a subtle smokiness to the spice blend. Regular paprika can be substituted but won’t provide the same flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper: Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. A little goes a long way.
- Olive Oil: Helps the spices adhere to the chicken and aids in achieving a crispy crust.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the skillet is very hot before adding the chicken. This creates the signature blackened crust without overcooking the meat.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
How This Recipe Fits Different Diets
Perfect for various diets, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether you follow keto, gluten-free, or Mediterranean dietary preferences, this dish is versatile enough to suit any meal plan.
- Pair with your favorite sides to create a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
- Low-FODMAP: Replace garlic and onion powders with garlic-infused oil and omit any high-FODMAP sides.
- Mediterranean Diet: This recipe fits well with its use of olive oil, fresh herbs, and lean protein.
- Keto Diet: High in protein and low in carbs, it’s a perfect fit for keto. Pair with keto-friendly sides.
- Gluten-Free Diet: Naturally gluten-free, just ensure all spices are free from cross-contamination.
- DASH Diet: Use less salt and serve with steamed vegetables or whole grains.
Remarks on the Recipe
- The interplay of herbs and spices creates a complex flavor profile that’s both smoky and slightly spicy.
- Cooking in a cast-iron skillet amplifies the blackened crust, adding a unique texture to the dish.
- Resting the chicken after cooking locks in juices, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
Key Takeaways
- Blackened chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare at home.
- Perfect for various diets, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Pair with your favorite sides to create a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
