Quick & Easy Blackened Chicken
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Blackened chicken makes a quick and easy dinner and pairs with anything from mashed potatoes and green beans to Caesar salad.
Blackening simply means to add oil or butter plus various spices and seasonings to the chicken before pan-frying it. This method seals all the juices into the chicken and adds a layer of incredible flavor to the meat.
Although there is ‘blackened seasoning’ available from the grocery store, part of the fun is coming up with your own blackening mixes. That also means you’re in control of the spice level. Blackened chicken doesn’t have to be super-spicy, but it can be if that’s your preference.
Leftover blackened chicken slices can be added to sandwiches, wraps, omelets, and so on, so you might like to make extra.
Some Options & Variations
Chicken tenders or chicken thighs would also work, or you could try another protein altogether, such as salmon or pork. Of course the cooking times would also vary.
This recipe would work on the grill, as long as the heat is high enough to char the spices and sear the crust. This has the added benefit of not having to open all the windows to let the smoke out!
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons mild paprika
- 2 teaspoons hot paprika
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 6 tablespoons butter
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- Sour cream lime wedges and cilantro, to serve (optional)
Instructions
- All ingredients ready? Let's begin!
- Melt 2/3 of the butter in the microwave then combine it with all the seasonings.
- Rub this mixture over the chicken breasts and let them sit for 20 minutes.
- Melt the rest of the butter in a skillet.
- Add the chicken and cook until charred and cooked through.
- This should take about 7 minutes per side.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve with your favorite garnishes.
Video
Nutrition
Handy Notes
- Adjust the spices if you like. You could use cayenne pepper or chili pepper instead of hot paprika, for example.
- Open the windows while cooking this!
- Since the chicken is going to be sliced before serving anyway, you might like to cut the larger one in half at the end of the cooking time, to make sure it’s cooked through. If no pink remains in the middle, then the chicken is fully cooked.
- Sour cream, lime wedges and cilantro are great to serve alongside blackened chicken breasts.
Blackened chicken is simple to prepare and the combination of spices adds so much flavor. Chicken is a neutral-tasting protein, making it ideal for blackening. You can tweak the spices and seasonings to perfectly suit your palate. This recipe is low in carbs, making it ideal for a keto diet.
