Enjoy this simple recipe for the tastiest, most flavorful, and most versatile blackened chicken! Made with a mix of common pantry spices, this chicken is easy to make and goes well with salads, tacos, and more!
Blackened chicken is a popular Cajun-inspired dish that is known for its crispy, spice-crusted exterior and juicy, flavorful meat With its striking black color and robust seasoning, it packs a flavor punch unlike any other chicken dish But what exactly is blackened chicken and how did it become such a beloved culinary creation?
A Brief History of Blackened Chicken
While the origins of blackened chicken are somewhat disputed, it gained widespread popularity in the 1980s thanks to Chef Paul Prudhomme of K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen in New Orleans. His blackened redfish put the cooking technique on the map, eventually leading home cooks to experiment with blackening chicken and other meats.
The blackening technique itself has roots in Cajun and Creole cooking, which aim to infuse proteins with intense, complex flavors using spices like cayenne, paprika, garlic, and thyme. The high heat and butter basting create a flavorful crust on the exterior while keeping the interior moist and juicy. This cooking method accentuates the natural flavors of the chicken.
How Blackening Works
So what makes blackened chicken “blackened” in the first place? The key is in the spice blend and searing process.
Paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, dried oregano and thyme, and onion powder are some of the spices that are usually used to blacken food. Spices like cumin or chili powder may also be added to some versions. This mix of spices gives food a spicy kick while also adding earthy, fragrant notes.
Melted butter is first used to cover the chicken, and then the chicken is dredged in the spice mixture. Then it is seared in a cast iron skillet that is very hot. The high heat toasts and burns the spices, giving the chicken a tasty charred crust on the outside.
Continuously basting the chicken with butter as it cooks prevents it from drying out. The end result is chicken with a slightly blackened, crispy coating encasing juicy and tender meat beneath.
Key Steps for Making Blackened Chicken
Here is a simple overview of the key steps involved in making classic blackened chicken:
-
To make the spice mix, mix together salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and paprika.
-
Prepare the chicken: Pat chicken dry and lightly pound to evenly thickness.
-
Melt the butter: Melt butter over low heat. Clarified butter works best.
-
Cover the chicken: Dip the chicken in melted butter, then roll it in the spice mix, pressing it down to make it stick.
-
Sear the chicken: Heat cast iron skillet over high heat until smoking. Add chicken and cook 3-6 minutes per side, basting with butter.
-
Check doneness: Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165F.
-
Let rest and serve: Allow chicken to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfectly Blackened Chicken
Here are some handy tips for getting picture-perfect blackened chicken every time:
-
Use skinless, boneless chicken breasts pounded to an even thickness for quick, even cooking.
-
Let the chicken come to room temperature before cooking for better searing.
-
Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet and get it ripping hot before adding chicken.
-
Keep the burner on high the entire time to maintain heat.
-
Use tongs to flip chicken rather than a fork to prevent puncturing and drying out.
-
Baste continuously with butter while chicken cooks.
-
Allow chicken to rest before slicing for juicier meat.
-
Mix up your own Cajun seasoning for tailored spice level and flavors.
Playing with the Possibilities
Once you master the basics, there are endless ways to put your own spin on blackened chicken:
-
Use boneless thighs, legs, or wings for more tender, flavorful dark meat.
-
Try blackened chicken tacos, sandwiches, pasta, or salad for fun entrée ideas.
-
Mix in extra spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, or chipotle.
-
Top with salsa, guacamole, or créme fraîche to balance the heat.
-
Make sheet pan or grilled versions for easy summer dinners.
-
Pair with classic Southern sides like collard greens, beans and rice, or cornbread.
So go beyond the usual poultry prep and give blackened chicken a try tonight! The crispy, spice-crusted exterior and moist, succulent meat will have your taste buds doing a happy dance in no time.
What is Blackened Seasoning?
Blackened seasoning is a flavorful spice blend with a kick! It creates a charred, “blackened” crust on meats, seafood, and vegetables when cooked in a skillet. The usual spices that go into this seasoning are paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano. But for this recipe, I’m only using dried oregano and thyme. This blend of spices gives an amazing balance of heat, smokiness, and aromatic flavors.
The meat or veggies are generously coated with the seasoning blend before being seared in a hot skillet, resulting in a dark, crispy exterior and a juicy, flavorful interior. Blackened seasoning is popular in Cajun cuisine, and is known for its bold and spicy profile!.
Serving & Storage Tips
Serve this blackened chicken with a variety of sides of roasted veggies, regular potatoes, or sweet potatoes, or use it for salads, chicken tacos, burrito bowls, and more! This is a great meal prep recipe because you can really use the chicken for a variety of meals and the serving options are endless.
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Gently reheat in the microwave or stovetop and serve atop a salad or alongside your favorite side dishes.
If you love this recipe, please give it a star rating and leave a comment below! Follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram for more!
Blackened Chicken!
FAQ
What does it mean when chicken is blackened?
It is a way of cooking chicken that involves coating it in a mix of spices and then cooking it at a high temperature. This makes a dark, flavorful crust that looks like it is black or deep brown. It’s not the same as burning; the dark color comes from the spices charring, not from the meat itself being burnt.
What is the difference between grilled chicken and blackened chicken?
Grilled chicken is made by cooking chicken on a grill or grill pan, no matter the seasonings. Blackened chicken is chicken that has been rubbed with a spice mix on the outside, making it look dark. It is often grilled, but can be cooked by other methods. It’s a popular method in Cajun and Creole cooking.
What is blackened seasoning made of?
Blackened seasoning is a blend of spices typically used in the “blackening” cooking technique, known for its smoky, spicy, and savory flavors. Common ingredients include paprika (often smoked), garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
Is blackened chicken healthy?
Blackened chicken, when prepared healthily, can be a nutritious and delicious option. It is a good source of lean protein and can be low in unhealthy fats, especially when grilled instead of fried.