Making Blackened Chicken Recipe is one of the simplest recipes we have made. Contrary to popular belief, blackened food is not burned.
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 20 mins |
Servings: 2 | Yield: 2 chicken breast halves |
Blackening describes the process of covering the protein (or food) with a unique spice blend that, when cooked in an oven, skillet, or grill, takes on a very dark brown or blackish color.
In addition to sharing how to blacken chicken breasts, we will use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this particular recipe.
How Do You Make Blackened Seasoning?
It’s very easy to make, and chances are you already have these spices in your pantry. Just combine the spices in a small bowl, or even better, a sandwich bag that can be sealed.
Although these amounts are sufficient for this recipe, you are welcome to increase it to twice, triple, or quadruple it for later use. Just keep it at room temperature in an airtight container.
- 1/2 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How Do You Make Blackened Chicken?
Follow the instructions we have laid down below to guide you in making the best Blackened chicken recipe you could ever imagine.
Step 1:
To begin, combine all of your spices for blackening in a bowl or shake them in a sandwich bag.
Step 2:
Wet the chicken with paper towels and pat dry. Next, give your chicken a quick coat with canola oil or vegetable oil.
Step 3:
As an alternative, you could apply some cooking spray to it. Now distribute the spices on both sides of each chicken breast. Evenly distribute the seasonings over the chicken with your hands.
Step 4:
Now, in a nonstick or cast-iron skillet, heat a small amount of canola, avocado, or vegetable oil over medium to medium-high heat until it smokes.
Step 5:
Cook the chicken until it’s cooked through and has turned a golden brown (almost black) color on both sides.
Step 6:
Take out of the skillet, cover with a tent made of loose aluminum foil, and allow to rest for ten minutes.
What are the Various Cooking Methods for Blackened Chicken?
There are multiple methods for preparing blackened chicken breasts.
1. On a skillet or stovetop: Cook the chicken for a few minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and forms a dark crust. This technique yields a deliciously crispy and sear exterior.
2. Grill: Adding blackened chicken to the grill adds a smoky flavor and gorgeous grill marks. Set the grill’s temperature to medium-high. The chicken gains a smoky and charred taste from the grill.
3. Oven: You can also cook blackened chicken in the oven. Set the oven’s temperature high, approximately 425°F (220°C). Bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes, or until it is thoroughly cooked.
4. Air Fryer: If you own an air fryer, blackened chicken can be prepared in a quick and healthful manner. Turn the air fryer on to 375°F, or 190°C. Apply a thin layer of the blackened seasoning to the chicken and mist it with cooking oil.
After putting the chicken in the air fryer basket, cook it for about 15 to 20 minutes, turning it halfway through, or until its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How to Serve and Store Your Blackened Chicken Recipe
This recipe for blackened chicken is a simple protein option that goes well with a variety of delectable sides.
Serve as a side dish with air fryer potatoes or mashed potatoes. It goes nicely with baked sweet potato fries or sweet mashed potatoes as well. Serve with these cheesy scalloped potatoes for an even cozier dinner.
Cool it completely before storing leftovers or a meal-prepped blackened chicken recipe. Transfer the chicken from room temperature into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This chicken with blackened edges freezes beautifully. The chicken will freeze for up to two months if properly packed in a freezer-safe container.