30-Minute Easy Blackened Chicken

This easy blackened chicken recipe delivers incredibly flavorful and slightly spicy chicken in just about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this homemade dish uses a simple spice blend and a hot skillet to create a delicious, slightly charred crust while keeping the chicken juicy.

• Keyword Focus: Easy Blackened Chicken, Quick Chicken Recipe, 30 Minute Chicken, Blackened Seasoning, Spicy Chicken.

Yields: 2-4 servings (depending on chicken size) Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Blackening Seasoning:

• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano  
• ½ - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

For the Chicken:

• 1-1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 2-4 pieces)
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil, avocado oil, or melted butter

Equipment:

• Small bowl (for mixing spices)
• Shallow dish or plate
• Large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed skillet
• Paper towels
• Instant-read thermometer

Instructions:

1. Mix the Blackening Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to ensure all spices are evenly distributed.  
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts or thighs completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear and allowing the seasoning to stick.
3. Season the Chicken: Place the chicken in a shallow dish or on a plate. Drizzle or brush both sides of the chicken with olive oil, avocado oil, or melted butter. Then, generously rub the blackening seasoning all over both sides of each piece of chicken, pressing it gently to adhere.
4. Heat the Skillet: Place a large cast iron skillet or another heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high to high heat. You want the skillet to be very hot, almost smoking slightly. This high heat is what creates the "blackened" crust.
5. Cook the Chicken: Carefully place the seasoned chicken in the hot skillet. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
   • For chicken breasts (about ½-inch thick): Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until a dark, slightly charred crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
   • For thicker chicken breasts or thighs: Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You may need to reduce the heat slightly if the seasoning is browning too quickly before the chicken is cooked through.
6. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender chicken.

Tips for Success:

• Don't be afraid of the heat: Blackening involves cooking at high heat, which creates the signature crust. However, watch carefully to prevent burning the spices.
• Use the right pan: A cast iron skillet is ideal for blackening because it retains heat well and distributes it evenly. A heavy-bottomed stainless steel skillet will also work. Avoid thin pans that can develop hot spots.
• Pat the chicken dry: As mentioned, this helps the seasoning stick and promotes better searing.
• Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the skillet and result in steamed rather than seared chicken.
• Ventilate your kitchen: The high heat and spices can create some smoke, so ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated.
• Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the level of heat. You can also add a pinch of sugar to the seasoning for a touch of sweetness and to aid in browning.

Enjoy your quick and delicious easy blackened chicken! It's fantastic served with rice, roasted vegetables, in salads, or as part of tacos or sandwiches.