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Blackened Chicken Breast Recipe

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4.2 from 57 reviews

This Blackened Chicken recipe features juicy boneless skinless chicken breasts coated in a bold blend of spices, quickly seared to achieve a smoky, charred crust, then finished in the oven for a perfectly cooked, flavorful meal. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner that delivers big on taste with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt (preferably thick flakes)

Other

  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 450°F (232°C) and allow it to reach the temperature while you prepare the chicken.
  2. Heat the skillet: Place a skillet on the stovetop over high heat and heat it for about 5 minutes until very hot to ensure proper blackening.
  3. Mix spices: In a small bowl, combine paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt thoroughly to create the blackening seasoning.
  4. Season the chicken: Brush each chicken breast generously with extra virgin olive oil on all sides, then pat the spice mixture evenly over each piece to coat completely.
  5. Sear the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and sear for approximately 30 seconds on each side to blacken the exterior but keep the inside tender.
  6. Finish in the oven: Transfer the skillet (or move chicken to an ovenproof dish if necessary) into the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) ensuring it is fully cooked.
  7. Rest the chicken: Remove from the oven and place the chicken breasts in a covered serving dish, allowing them to rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
  8. Serve: Slice the chicken as desired and serve hot, ideal with your choice of sides.

Notes

  • Use a cast iron or heavy skillet for best results in blackening and searing.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to control the spice level based on your preference.
  • Resting the chicken after cooking is crucial to keep it moist and flavorful.
  • Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
  • Pair with vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.