Juicy Spicy Blackened Chicken (Printable)

Crispy, smoky chicken with bold Cajun spices and tender, juicy meat.

# What You'll Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)

→ Blackening Spice Mix

02 - 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
05 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
06 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
07 - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
08 - 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
09 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt

→ For Cooking

10 - 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
11 - Lemon wedges, for serving
12 - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot (about 5 minutes).
02 - Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
03 - In a small bowl, combine all spice mix ingredients.
04 - Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil or melted butter.
05 - Generously coat each chicken breast on all sides with the spice mixture, pressing gently so the spices adhere.
06 - Place chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until a dark, almost black crust forms.
07 - Flip the chicken and cook another 4–5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.
08 - Remove from heat and let rest for 2–3 minutes.
09 - Slice and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges as desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The spice crust creates an irresistible crunch that locks in every drop of moisture
  • Ready in under 30 minutes but tastes like it came from a restaurant kitchen
  • The heat level is completely customizable so everyone stays happy
02 -
  • A dark crust is not burned, that is literally where all the flavor lives
  • Using a meat thermometer is the only way to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken every time
  • The pan will get incredibly smoky, so turn on your fan and crack a window before you start
03 -
  • Let the chicken come to room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking for even results
  • Make extra spice blend and store it in an airtight container for next time

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