Blackened chicken is a culinary masterpiece that captivates the senses with its bold, smoky flavor and crispy, charred exterior. The technique behind this dish results in a tantalizing contrast of textures, where the surface is perfectly seared, while the inside remains juicy and tender. The dark, almost caramelized crust is a testament to the skill of creating just the right balance of heat and seasoning, transforming the chicken into a savory delight. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to take a bite and savor the complex layers of spices that deepen with every mouthful. Whether served atop a salad, tucked into a sandwich, or paired with a vibrant side, blackened chicken adds an undeniable flair to any meal, leaving a lasting impression that lingers long after the last bite.

Blackened Chicken

Blackened chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that delights the palate with its bold, smoky taste and satisfying texture. The chicken is expertly coated with a mix of spices, then seared at high heat, forming a dark, crisp crust that locks in the juicy tenderness of the meat.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 2

Calories 135 kcal

Ingredients

½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon ground cumin
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
⅛ teaspoon onion powder
⅛ teaspoon ground white pepper
⅛ teaspoon salt
2 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
cooking spray

Instructions

Gather all the ingredients and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and doesn't stick to the pan during the baking process.
Place a cast iron skillet on the stove and heat it on high until it starts to smoke, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. This step ensures the skillet is hot enough to create a perfect sear on the chicken, locking in the flavors and creating a crispy, flavorful crust.
As the skillet heats, combine paprika, cayenne, cumin, thyme, onion powder, white pepper, and salt in a small bowl. This spice mixture will coat the chicken, adding a bold, flavorful kick that contributes to the signature "blackened" crust.
Lightly spray both sides of the chicken breasts with cooking spray, then evenly coat them with the spice mixture. The cooking spray helps the spices stick to the chicken, ensuring a flavorful and crispy crust once seared in the hot skillet.
Place the chicken in the hot skillet and cook for 1 minute, then flip it and cook for another minute on the other side. This quick searing helps develop the blackened crust. After searing, transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet to finish cooking in the oven.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 5 to 10 minutes, or until it is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. To ensure it’s fully cooked, check with an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and remains juicy and tender.
Plate the chicken and serve immediately, savoring the flavorful, crispy crust and tender interior. Enjoy this delicious dish as a satisfying main course or alongside your favorite sides!