How to Make Blackened Chicken: Flavorful Spicy Recipe

As a busy parent, finding quick, tasty meals for the family can be tough. That’s why I’m excited to share my favorite blackened chicken recipe. It’s a Cajun dish that’s full of bold, spicy flavors and easy to make at home.

Key Takeaways

Blackened chicken is a Cajun-inspired dish with a crispy, spicy exterior and juicy interior.
The recipe uses a flavorful seasoning blend that can be used on chicken breasts or thighs.
You can cook the blackened chicken in a hot cast-iron skillet, the oven, or on the grill.
Blackened chicken is a quick and easy weeknight meal option that’s perfect for busy families.
The recipe can be customized with various serving suggestions and recipe variations.

What Is Blackened Chicken?

Blackened chicken is a spicy dish from Cajun cuisine. It’s made by coating chicken in spices and searing it at high heat. This creates a dark, caramelized crust.

The “blackened” look comes from the toasted spice mixture, not burnt chicken.

How to Make Blackened Chicken?

The secret to blackened chicken is the blackening technique. First, the chicken is coated in spices like paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder. Then, it’s seared in a hot skillet or oven.

This method seals in the juices, making the chicken tender and juicy. The outside gets crispy and blackened. Chef Paul Prudhomme made this technique famous, introducing Cajun and Creole cuisines nationwide.

“The blackened technique is all about building layers of flavor through the use of high heat and a carefully curated spice blend.”

Ingredients for Blackened Chicken

To make perfect blackened chicken, you need a few key ingredients. The heart of this dish is the spice blend. It gives the bold, Cajun-inspired flavors.

The spice blend includes chili powder, cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. You’ll also need 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. This is where the blackening magic happens.

Finally, a bit of olive oil or avocado oil is needed. It helps the spices stick to the chicken, creating that tasty crust.

Ingredient	Amount
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs	1 pound
Chili Powder	1 tablespoon
Cumin	1 teaspoon
Coriander	1 teaspoon
Paprika	1 teaspoon
Garlic Powder	1 teaspoon
Red Pepper Flakes	1/2 teaspoon
Salt	1 teaspoon
Black Pepper	1/2 teaspoon
Olive Oil or Avocado Oil	2 tablespoons

With these ingredients, you can make a tasty blackened chicken dish in 20 minutes. The spice blend is crucial for that blackened crust. The chicken is the perfect base for these bold flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Getting the perfect blackened chicken starts with the spice blend. Mix cumin, Creole seasoning, Southwest chipotle seasoning, lemon-pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. This mix is key for that blackened crust.

Preparing the Spice Blend

To make the spice blend, combine the following in a small bowl:

1 teaspoon cumin
2 teaspoons Creole seasoning
1 teaspoon Southwest chipotle seasoning
1/2 teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Stir the spices until well mixed. This blend can be stored for up to a year. It’s perfect for whenever you want blackened chicken.

Coating the Chicken

With your spice blend ready, coat the chicken. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels first. Then, rub the spice mixture all over, covering every inch.

Cooking Methods

Now, the chicken is coated. You can oven bake it at 350°F for 12-15 minutes. Or, sear it in a hot skillet for 3-4 minutes per side. For grilling, cook for 6-8 minutes per side.

Choose your method, but watch the chicken closely. Remove it when it reaches 165°F. This keeps your blackened chicken juicy and flavorful.

Baking Blackened Chicken in the Oven

For a simple way to make baked blackened chicken, try the oven method. First, heat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.

Place the seasoned chicken breasts or thighs on the sheet. Bake for 17-20 minutes, until the chicken hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit. To get that blackened crust, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.

After baking, drizzle the baked blackened chicken with melted butter. Sprinkle dried parsley on top for extra flavor and looks. This easy oven method is perfect for a quick dinner any day.

Ingredient	Amount
Light Olive Oil	3 tablespoons
Brown Sugar	1 tablespoon
Cajun Seasoning	1 tablespoon
Garlic Powder	1 teaspoon
Onion Powder	1 teaspoon
Smoked Paprika	1 teaspoon
Melted Butter	2 tablespoons
Dried Parsley	1 teaspoon

“The oven-baked method is a great hands-off way to make blackened chicken with a delightfully crispy exterior.”

Grilling Blackened Chicken

Grilling blackened chicken at home can bring bold, smoky flavors right to your plate. Outdoor grilling makes the dish even more complex, adding depth and intensity. It’s a true delight for those who love grilled food.

Tips for Grilling Blackened Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (200-230°C).
Ensure the grill grates are well-oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts flat on the grill grates, avoiding any bunching or overlapping.
Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it develops a nice, charred crust.
Use tongs or a spatula to flip the chicken, rather than a fork, to prevent the juices from escaping.
Monitor the internal temperature of the chicken, removing it from the grill once it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let the grilled blackened chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Follow these tips to get the perfect grilled blackened chicken. It’s smoky, spicy, and juicy. Serve it with your favorite sides for a tasty outdoor meal.

Cooking Blackened Chicken Breasts in a Skillet

For those who prefer the stovetop method, cooking blackened chicken breasts in a hot cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet is an excellent option. This pan-seared technique works best with boneless, skinless chicken breasts that have been pounded to an even 1/2-inch thickness. The key is to sear the chicken in a preheated skillet until a delicious crust forms, then remove it from the heat to rest before slicing or serving.

To begin, prepare the spice blend by combining smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, and salt and pepper in a small bowl. Generously coat the chicken breasts with the seasoning mixture, ensuring even coverage on all sides.

Next, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until a deep, golden-brown crust forms. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches if necessary.

After the chicken is nicely seared, transfer it to a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet to rest for 3 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains tender and juicy. Once rested, the blackened chicken breasts are ready to be sliced or served whole.

“The key to perfectly cooked blackened chicken is all in the searing technique. Get that skillet ripping hot to achieve a delicious crust, then let the chicken rest to lock in the juices.”

This stovetop blackened chicken method is not only quick and easy but also delivers incredibly flavorful and tender results. Serve the skillet-cooked blackened chicken breasts with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy!

Blackened Chicken Breasts in Skillet — How to Make Blackened Chicken: Flavorful Spicy Recipe 2

how to make blackened chicken

Make your dinner special with a tasty blackened chicken recipe. This spicy dish has a homemade seasoning that makes a great crust on the chicken. It’s juicy and flavorful with every bite. You can bake, grill, or pan-sear it, making it easy to cook however you like.

To start, let’s look at how to make perfect blackened chicken at home:

Prepare the Spice Blend: Mix smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and a bit of cayenne pepper. This creates a strong and tasty seasoning.
Coat the Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts well with the seasoning blend. Make sure it’s evenly spread on all sides.
Choose Your Cooking Method: Pick whether to bake, grill, or pan-sear the chicken. Each way gives a delicious char and a juicy inside.

By following these easy steps, you’ll make a delicious blackened chicken recipe. It’s full of homemade seasoning and easy spicy taste. Impress your family and friends with this tasty and versatile dish.

Nutritional Information (per serving)	Value
Calories	168
Fat	5g
Protein	23g
Carbohydrates	2g
Sodium	292mg

Learn the secrets to making the best blackened chicken recipe at home. It has a flavorful homemade seasoning blend and is easy to cook. This spicy and versatile chicken dish will satisfy your cravings.

Serving Suggestions

Blackened chicken is great with many side dishes. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. You’ll find lots of tasty options.

Side Dish Ideas

Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts
Fluffy white or brown rice
Creamy mashed potatoes
Fresh, crisp salad with your favorite toppings
Warm, buttery dinner rolls

Meal Prep and Repurposing Leftovers

Blackened chicken is perfect for meal prep. It’s quick to cook and keeps well in the fridge or freezer. Here are some ideas for using leftovers:

Slice the chicken and add it to a lunch salad or wrap
Dice it up and mix it into a hearty burrito bowl or taco filling
Shred the chicken and use it as a topping for a loaded baked potato
Incorporate the leftover chicken into a creamy pasta dish or casserole

Blackened chicken’s bold flavor makes it a great choice for quick meals. It’s versatile and satisfying any day of the week.

Serving Size	Calories	Carbs	Fat	Protein
8 oz	278	0.5g	10.3g	40.7g

Blackened Chicken Meal Prep — How to Make Blackened Chicken: Flavorful Spicy Recipe 3

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Blackened chicken is a tasty dish that you can make your own. You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier taste. Just make sure to cook the thighs longer until they’re fully cooked.

Want less heat? Cut down on the cayenne pepper. For a spicier dish, add more smoked paprika or some chipotle chili powder.

Don’t be afraid to mix up the spice blend. Try adding dried oregano, rosemary, or ground cumin for a new twist. This can give your dish a Southwestern flavor.

Ingredient	Substitution
Chicken Breasts	Chicken Thighs
Cayenne Pepper	Reduce or increase to adjust heat level
Smoked Paprika	Add more for a bolder flavor
Herbs and Spices	Experiment with different combinations
Worcestershire Sauce	Soy Sauce (in a smaller quantity)

Blackened chicken is all about trying new things. Adjust the recipe to your liking and enjoy the unique tastes each change brings.

Conclusion

Blackened chicken is a tasty Cajun dish that adds bold, spicy flavors to your meals. It’s easy to make and packs a punch of flavor. Mastering the blackening technique gives you a savory char and a spicy kick.

This recipe is versatile, letting you try different cooking methods. You can bake, grill, or pan-sear the chicken. Adjust the Cajun spices to your liking and serve it in salads, wraps, or as a main dish. Blackened chicken is a must-try for its bold taste and simple prep.

Looking for a spicy dish or a Cajun fix? Blackened chicken is your answer. It’s a flavorful, homemade meal that’s easy to make. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this amazing recipe.

FAQ

What is blackened chicken?

Blackened chicken is a Cajun dish with a crispy, spicy outside and juicy inside. It’s made by seasoning chicken breasts or thighs with a blend of spices. Then, they’re seared in a hot skillet or oven to get a dark crust.

What ingredients are needed to make blackened chicken?

You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken, a spice mix with paprika and chili powder, and olive or avocado oil. A bit of balsamic vinegar adds flavor too.

What is the process for making blackened chicken?

First, mix the spice blend. Then, dry the chicken and coat it well. Finally, sear or bake it at high heat to get the blackened crust.

Can blackened chicken be baked in the oven?

Yes, baking blackened chicken works well. Preheat the oven, line a baking sheet with foil, and bake the chicken at high heat. Then, broil it to get the crust right.

How do you grill blackened chicken?

Preheat the grill to medium-high. Place the chicken flat on the grates and cook for a few minutes on each side. Make sure the grill is oiled and the chicken is laid flat.

How do you cook blackened chicken in a skillet?

Use a hot cast-iron skillet for stovetop blackened chicken. Pound boneless breasts to even thickness. Sear the chicken until a crust forms, then rest it before slicing.

What are some serving suggestions for blackened chicken?

Serve blackened chicken with rice, roasted veggies, or in tacos. It’s great in salads and burrito bowls too. You can also prep it for later meals.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for blackened chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs. Adjust the spice blend for heat and substitute ingredients as needed. Cooking times and methods vary for different chicken cuts.