Let’s talk about chicken. What kind of chicken do you like? What are some of the best spices toWhat is a blackened chicken recipeWhat are some of the best recipes that you can find in a restaurant? I used to think I needed to go out to get that smoky, slightly spicy flavor, but now? Forget about it! Is this recipe easier than the usual Baked Chicken breast? What is my favorite thing to make on a busy weeknight? What is the key to using a good spice blend?
What is blackened chicken?
So, what exactly *is* blackened chicken? Think of it as the ultimate flavor bomb for your chicken. It’s essentially chicken that’s coated in a bold spice mixture and then cooked in a hot skillet – preferably cast iron – until it develops a beautiful, almost charred crust. The spices create this dark, almost black appearance, hence the name “blackened.” Don’t worry, it’s not actually burnt! The spices create a crust that seals in all the juicy goodness and gives you that amazing smoky, slightly spicy flavor. It’s not as scary as it sounds, I promise. It’s more of a flavor celebration! I always make sure I have all my ingredients prepped before I even turn on the stove.
Why do I love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to love this recipe?What is a blackened chicken recipeHow much flavor you get with so little effort. Seriously, the spice blend does all the work.
- Flavor explosion:We’re talking a symphony of savory, and slightly spicy notes that will have you licking your lips. What is the best combination of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder and onion powder? My family goes crazy for it!
- SurprisinglyDon’t let the “blackened” part intimidate you. Is this recipe easy to make? I’ve made this countless times, and it’s consistently perfect.
- Budget friendly Chicken thighs are usually pretty affordable, and the spices are pantry staples. It’s a win-win! It is perfect for those nights when you’re staring into the fridge wondering what to make.
- Versatile: You can serve this chicken with just about anything! Rice, pasta, salads, veggies – you name it. It’s also fantastic in tacos or sandwiches. I love using leftovers in salads the next day.
What makes this chicken dish stand out from other chicken recipes? Restaurant price tag. I can customize the spice level to suit everyone’s taste. Is it easier to make than you think, and will make you feel like a professional chef?
How do I make blackened chicken?
Quick Overview
Making this How do you cook blackened chicken? is a breeze! First, you’ll mix up your spice blend. Then, you’ll coat your chicken in the spices. Next, you’ll sear the chicken in a hot skillet until it’s cooked through and beautifully blackened. That’s it! The key is to use a high heat and a good skillet to get that perfect crust. It’s seriously easier than ordering takeout, and way more satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Blackened Chicken: For a White Chicken
- I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1 1/2 pounds) – I like them because they stay in their skin longer. I also like my chicken breasts. Can chicken breasts be juicier? Just adjust the cooking time.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Or any oil with a high smoke point.
For the Blackening Spice Blend:
- 2 tablespoons paprika – I like to use smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder – Don’t skimp on the garlic!
- 1 tablespoon onion powder – Adds a subtle sweetness.
- What is the flavor of dried oregano?
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper – Adjust to your spice preference! I usually add a little more because I like the kick.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground is best!
- 1 teaspoon salt – Sea salt or kosher salt works great.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds a nice earthy note.
What are the Step-
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken & Spice Blend
First, pat the Chicken Thighs dry with paper towels. This is super important for getting a good sear. Then, in a small bowl, whisk together all the spices for the blackening spice blend. Make sure there are no clumps. Get it all mixed up super well.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Now, generously coat each chicken thigh with the blackening spice blend, pressing it into the pan. Why does chicken stick? Make sure both sides are evenly coated. You want a nice thick layer of spices.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
In a large cast iron skillet, heat the Olive Oil over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside. If you cook chicken in a skillet, you want it to be really hot before you add the chicken. How do you get that blackened crust?
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Carefully place the Chicken Thighs in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If you need to, cook them in batches. Sear for about 4-5 minutes per side, until the chicken is cooked through and the spices have formed a dark, almost black crust. Be careful not to burn the spices! Adjust the heat if necessary.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. If it’s not quite there, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. I always tent it with foil, too.
Step 7: Slice & Serve
What is the best way to serve blackened chicken? Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon juice, if desired. I like to serve it over rice or with a side of roasted vegetables.
What should I serve it with?
This What are some blackened chicken recipes? is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas for serving it:
For a quick weeknight dinner: Serve with a side of rice and steamed broccoli. Easy peasy!
For a more elaborate meal: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, and a side salad.
For a party: Slice the chicken and serve it on a platter with tortillas, salsa, guacamole, and all your favorite taco toppings. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!
For a healthy lunch: Add sliced blackened chicken to a salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
I’ve even used it in quesadillas! Honestly, the possibilities are endless.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Blackened Chicken
Here are a few tips to help you make the best blackened Chicken Recipe ever:
Use a cast-iron skillet: If you have one, a cast-iron skillet is ideal for this recipe. It distributes heat evenly and gives the chicken a beautiful sear.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you overcrowd the pan, the chicken will steam instead of sear. Cook it in batches if necessary.
Adjust the spice level to your taste: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the spice blend. Or, if you like it extra spicy, add more!
Don’t be afraid of the heat: You want the skillet to be really hot to get that blackened crust. Just be careful not to burn the spices.
Let the chicken rest: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Experiment with different spices: Feel free to add other spices to the blackening spice blend, such as cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika.
One thing I learned the hard way is to make sure your vent fan is on – the spices can get a little smoky!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t leave this at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Keep it safe, friends!
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover blackened chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s great for meal prepping!
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, you can microwave the chicken, but it might get a little dry. I prefer to reheat it in a skillet over medium heat with a little bit of Olive Oil, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
I usually wait to slice it until right before I serve it, no matter how I’m storing it, to keep it from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! My go-to blackened Chicken Recipe that’s a surefire way to impress. The flavor is just unbeatable, and it’s so easy to customize to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your friends, this recipe is a winner. It really has become one of my family’s favorites, and I bet it’ll become one of yours, too. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like my recipe for blackened salmon! Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. I can’t wait to hear what you think! Happy cooking!
Blackened Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts Cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp Paprika
- 1 tbsp Garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Onion powder
- 1 tsp Cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
- Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
