Blackened Chicken

“Try this easy and flavorful Blackened Chicken recipe for a quick, delicious meal! With a perfect blend of spices like paprika, cayenne, garlic, and thyme, this pan-seared and oven-baked chicken delivers a bold, smoky flavor with a crispy crust. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a great choice for busy weeknights. Serve with your favorite sides or enjoy in wraps and sandwiches. Perfect for spice lovers, this blackened chicken recipe is versatile, juicy, and packed with flavor!”

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• Lemon wedges (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
   • In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Season the Chicken:
   • Generously coat both sides of each chicken breast with the spice mix, pressing down to ensure the seasoning sticks to the chicken.
4. Sear the Chicken:
   • In a cast-iron skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is hot and melted, add the seasoned chicken breasts.
   • Sear the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Bake the Chicken:
   • If desired, add lemon wedges to the skillet for extra flavor. Then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
   • Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve:
   • Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh lemon wedges.

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Tips

• Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality spices. The seasoning mix can be adjusted to your heat preference by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper.
• Let the Chicken Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps keep it juicy and tender.
• Searing is Key: Searing the chicken before baking ensures a flavorful, crispy crust and helps seal in the juices.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper for a milder or spicier chicken. You can also omit it entirely if you prefer a non-spicy version.
• Boneless Chicken Thighs: You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a juicier result.
• Herb Variations: Add other herbs such as oregano, basil, or rosemary to the spice mix for a more complex flavor.
• Butter Substitute: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute butter with olive oil or coconut oil.

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FAQs

Can I use chicken with skin?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts or thighs. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as the skin will take longer to crisp up.

What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?
You can use any oven-safe skillet, but cast iron is ideal for achieving that perfect sear. Alternatively, sear the chicken in a regular skillet and transfer it to a baking dish for the oven step.

How do I know when the chicken is done?
To ensure the chicken is cooked properly, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

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Serving Suggestions

• With Sides: Serve the blackened chicken with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Sandwich or Wrap: Slice the chicken and add it to wraps, sandwiches, or tacos for a quick and flavorful meal.
• With Dipping Sauce: Serve with a cool dipping sauce like ranch or a tangy yogurt-based dip to balance out the spice.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Bold: The combination of spices creates a bold, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor profile that enhances the chicken.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this blackened chicken is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Juicy and Tender: The searing followed by baking ensures juicy chicken with a crisp, flavorful crust.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasoning to your liking, making it perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors or prefers a milder dish.