Blackened Chicken Cajun Spiced (Print)
Crispy, smoky blackened chicken bursting with Cajun spice and juicy tenderness in just 25 minutes.
# 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:
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. Generously coat each chicken breast on all sides with the spice mixture, pressing gently so the spices adhere.
05 - Place chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until a dark, almost black crust forms.
06 - Flip the chicken and cook another 4–5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.
07 - Remove from heat and let rest for 2–3 minutes. Slice and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges as desired.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The spice crust creates this incredible crunch that gives way to impossibly tender meat inside
- Ready in under 30 minutes but tastes like it came from a restaurant kitchen
- You control the heat level, so it works for spice lovers and the spice-curious alike
02 -
- The blackened crust is supposed to be dark and nearly black, but if you smell burning, reduce heat immediately
- Dont move the chicken while the first side sears or you will break the crust formation
- A meat thermometer takes all the guesswork out and prevents overcooking
03 -
- Pound your chicken to even thickness before seasoning for consistently perfect results
- Open your windows and turn on your fan before cooking, the spices will create quite a bit of smoke