Blackened Chicken (Easy Dinner Recipe)

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Make your own spice mix with paprika, cayenne, thyme, and more. Adjust the cayenne for a milder flavor. Cut large chicken breasts in half lengthwise to cook them faster and more evenly. Use a Ziploc bag to mix the spices and clean up easily.

Before you cook, let the chicken sit out for 30 minutes. This makes sure it cooks just right. Heat your pan until it smokes, then add the chicken. After cooking, let the chicken sit with foil on top for 10-15 minutes. This keeps it juicy. It’s an Easy Dinner Idea your family will love!

Ingredients List & How To Make It (Step by Step)

To make amazing Blackened Chicken, start with the needed items. You must have boneless, skinless chicken breasts and a variety of spices. These include smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic and onion powders, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and salt. For cooking, select from canola, avocado, or vegetable oils.

This Chicken Breast Recipe is unique because of its special homemade spice mix. Mix all the spices in a bowl. Or you can use a Ziploc bag for less mess. Before you season the chicken, dry it well with paper towels. Lightly oil the chicken too.

Now, spread the spice mix all over the chicken. Make sure it covers the whole surface. This is key to getting the tasty blackened crust. Next, get the oil really hot in your skillet. It should almost start to smoke.

Put the spiced chicken in the skillet. Cook each side for about five minutes. Stop when the outside is dark and the inside is cooked. Finally, let the chicken sit for a bit before you eat. This keeps it moist and full of flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Making the perfect blackened chicken is simple with these cooking tips. Use a nonstick or cast-iron skillet. This ensures an even blackened crust. And, be sure your chicken isn’t cold; room temperature helps avoid dry spots.

For the best results, use a meat thermometer. Make sure the chicken’s inside is at 165°F. This makes it safe and tasty. You might also try boneless skinless chicken thighs for extra flavor and juice.

Trying new spices can be fun. Smoked paprika makes it richer. Or use dried oregano for a herb twist. Avocado oil or ghee is great for cooking. They have good tastes and high smoke points, making your chicken just right.

Let your chicken sit for a bit after cooking. It keeps the juice in, making it tender and full of flavor. These easy steps are key to a perfect blackened crust without dry meat.

“Letting the chicken rest after cooking keeps it tender and juicy,” says culinary expert Alton Brown.

Serving Suggestions

Make your meal better with great Chicken Dinner Pairings. Try Bacon Asparagus Cajun Pasta or Cauliflower Au Gratin. They make your meal richer and keep you satisfied.

Want things simple? Pair your chicken with buttered angel hair pasta and a fresh salad. It’s a perfect match without taking away from your main dish. For easy oven dishes, go for Brussels sprouts or broccoli. They cook fast at the same heat as the chicken.

Cool down spice with fresh salads. A cucumber tomato salad or an arugula salad are great picks. They are Healthy Sides that balance the heat. Also, for those watching carbs, try creamy cucumber salad or use lettuce wraps.

These Complete Meal Ideas make dining special. They turn your Blackened Chicken into an amazing feast.

How to Store

Keeping your blackened chicken tasty and safe is key. Store it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavor and chicken nice and juicy.

To reheat, use the microwave on low. This keeps your chicken from getting dry. Chicken slices work great on salads or in sandwiches for the next day.

Cut larger pieces into smaller ones for better storage. It cools and reheats faster. Always eat any leftovers within 3 days for the best taste and safety.

Following these storing tips keeps your chicken fresh. Enjoying it later will feel just like having it hot off the grill. Good chicken storage makes every bite a delight.