Blackened Chicken

This blackened chicken recipe is loaded with smoky, juicy flavor with a bold crust.

A mix of zesty spices, savory seasonings, and a bit of brown sugar creates a crispy rub for these pan-fried chicken breasts.

plate of Blackened Chicken with one piece sliced

Flavor: Blackened chicken is bold, smoky, and a little spicy, with a crisp, flavorful crust.
Skill Level: This beginner-friendly recipe is easy peasy! Just cut and season the chicken and pan-fry until blackened.
Technique: Pan frying on high heat ensures the crust is seared onto the chicken, making the chicken extra juicy inside.
Recommended Tools: A meat thermometer is a must-have tool for ensuring proper doneness for all proteins, especially chicken.
Serving Suggestions: Delicious hot or cold, use blackened chicken as a salad topper, in a wrap, or a hearty sandwich with a tangy coleslaw on ciabatta bread for a hearty sandwich.

chicken , oil and seasonings to make Blackened Chicken

What Is Blackened Chicken?

This recipe is all about the combination of savory and spicy flavors with a little sweetness to balance them out.

Chicken: Chicken breasts work great in this recipe, but cutlets, boneless, skinless thighs, and even wings can be used.
Sugar: Brown sugar glazes the seasonings into a crispy crust, but you can use a sugar-free brown sugar substitute, honey, or maple syrup.
Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasoning amounts to suit your preference. If cayenne pepper is too spicy, swap it out for black pepper.

For the best blackened crust, use a cast-iron skillet and preheat it well.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to help keep the juices in.
You’ll fall in love with this seasoning, so make a double batch to save some for later!

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover blackened chicken in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To freeze, let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, or store it in an airtight container, and label it with the date. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Ways to Use Blackened Chicken

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Blackened chicken is seasoned with a bold blend of spices and pan-fried until charred and crispy on the outside.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

In a small bowl, combine the paprika, smoked paprika, cumin, dark brown sugar, salt, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and cayenne. Set the spice mixture aside.
Cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 4 thinner chicken fillets.
Rub the blackened seasoning over both sides of the chicken.
Heat the olive oil in a 12-inch skillet or cast iron skillet over medium heat.
Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side or until blackened and cooked through.

You can use a premade blackened seasoning if you prefer. Premade seasonings tend to be saltier.
Cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To bake in the oven:

Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Prepare the chicken as directed and rub it with oil and then the seasoning.
Place the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 17 to 20 minutes or until cooked through.

Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.

Course Chicken, Dinner

Cuisine American

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