If you are craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors yet incredibly easy to prepare, this Simple Blackened Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. The magic lies in the spicy, smoky blackened seasoning that creates a mouthwatering crust, locking in juicy tenderness inside each bite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe brings restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and ingredients. Once you try this, it’s bound to become one of your favorite go-to meals for any night of the week!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to this Simple Blackened Chicken Recipe’s success. Each component is straightforward yet essential, contributing to the ultimate flavor, texture, and color that make this dish so irresistible.
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts: Splitting them into thinner cutlets helps them cook evenly and quickly.
- 3-4 tablespoons blackened seasoning: This spice blend provides the bold, smoky, and slightly spicy crust that defines the recipe.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that perfect sear with a silky finish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Keeps the chicken from sticking and balances the butter’s flavor with a light fruitiness.
How to Make Simple Blackened Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets
Start by cutting the chicken breasts lengthwise to create four even, thinner cutlets. This step is key because thinner pieces cook faster and yield a tender interior without burning the crust. Make sure to pat the chicken dry using paper towels to get a nice sear later on.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Generously
Next, coat each piece thoroughly with the blackened seasoning. Don’t be shy here — the seasoning is what gives the chicken its signature flavor and that beautiful, darkened crust. Press it in gently so it adheres well.
Step 3: Heat and Sear
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter together with the olive oil. Once the pan is hot and shimmering, carefully place the chicken in the skillet. Cook each side for about 5 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F internally and boasts a deep, flavorful crust. This is where the magic of blackening happens — the perfect balance of heat and spice turning into something truly delightful.
Step 4: Rest Before Serving
After cooking, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 4 to 5 minutes. Resting is super important because it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender rather than dry.
How to Serve Simple Blackened Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh contrast to the bold spices, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the chicken. A squeeze of lemon or lime juice adds a bright, citrusy lift that complements the smoky crust beautifully, making each bite even more vibrant.
Side Dishes
This Simple Blackened Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like creamy mashed potatoes, a zesty coleslaw, or even a crisp green salad. For a low-carb option, roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice work perfectly, soaking up those flavors from the blackened chicken juices.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond just plating it straightforwardly, try slicing the blackened chicken and layering it over a bed of rice or stuffing it into warm tortillas for a flavorful wrap. You can also dice the chicken and toss it into hearty pastas or grain bowls, turning it into a versatile protein option that never gets boring.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover blackened chicken in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect protein to have on hand for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Simple Blackened Chicken Recipe for longer, freezing is a great idea. Wrap each cooked piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay in the freezer up to 2 months without losing quality, ready to be thawed whenever you need a flavorful meal.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or use the microwave on a low power setting to avoid drying it out. Adding a tiny splash of water or broth helps keep the texture moist and preserves the bold seasoning’s flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully with this recipe; they have a bit more fat which makes them extra juicy and flavorful when blackened. Cooking times might vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.
What if I don’t have pre-made blackened seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own by mixing common spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This homemade blend allows you to control the heat and flavor intensity exactly how you like.
Is this recipe very spicy?
It can be mildly to moderately spicy depending on the blackened seasoning you use. If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper or opt for a milder spice blend while keeping the smoky, savory notes intact.
Can I grill the chicken instead of using a skillet?
Grilling is a fantastic alternative that adds an extra smoky flavor. Just be sure to oil the grill grates well and cook over medium heat to avoid burning the seasoning before the chicken cooks through.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest and most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part to ensure the meat is white and juices run clear.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Blackened Chicken Recipe is a game changer when you want something quick, flavorful, and satisfying without fuss. Its blend of spices and juicy, seared texture makes it a dish you’ll come back to again and again. I can’t wait for you to try this at home and fall in love with how effortless and delicious a blackened chicken dinner can be!
Print
Simple Blackened Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Simple Blackened Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in flavorful blackened seasoning and pan-seared to perfection, creating a deliciously crispy, dark crust while keeping the meat juicy and flavorful. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
Seasoning & Cooking
- 3–4 tablespoons blackened seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner cutlets. Pat each cutlet dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure even cooking and better crust formation.
- Season the Chicken: Generously coat each chicken cutlet on all sides with the blackened seasoning, making sure to cover them evenly for a balanced spicy and smoky flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter and olive oil. Once the butter has melted and the pan is hot, place the chicken cutlets in the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and develops a dark, flavorful crust.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and allow it to rest for 4-5 minutes. This step lets the juices redistribute, ensuring moist and tender chicken when cut or served.
Notes
- Patting the chicken dry is essential to achieve the best blackened crust.
- If you don’t have blackened seasoning, you can substitute with equal parts paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Using a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottom pan will give the best sear and crust.
- Letting the chicken rest after cooking keeps it juicy.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking at 165°F.
