Quick and Spicy Blackened Chicken: Easy Cajun Weeknight Dinner
Blackened Chicken: Flavor-Packed Cajun Dinner
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Blackened chicken is a Cajun favorite, and this recipe is so easy. The blackening spice rub comes together in seconds, and the chicken sears in minutes.
Prep Time: | Cook Time: | Total Time:
Servings: 2 servings
Why You’ll Love this Blackened Chicken
Looking for a simple weeknight meal with bold Cajun flair? This easy blackened chicken recipe delivers a crispy, aromatic crust with minimal fuss.
Ingredients for Blackened Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil, for searing
How to Make Blackened Chicken
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray.
2. Make the Cajun Rub
In a small bowl, whisk together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear & Bake
- Pat chicken breasts dry. Evenly rub the spice mix all over each piece.
- Heat butter or oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side, forming a dark, flavorful crust.
- Transfer seared chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Bake 10 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest 5 minutes before slicing to lock in juices.
Tips & Variations
- Extra heat: Increase cayenne or add a pinch of smoked paprika.
- Butter finish: Dot with butter before baking for a richer crust.
- Serving suggestions: Serve over rice, in tacos, or alongside roasted veggies.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 135 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 67 mg
- Sodium: 205 mg
There you have it — the ultimate blackened chicken for dinner that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor.
Recipe inspired by Allrecipes.
Blackened Chicken: Flavor-Packed Cajun Dinner
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, whisk together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Pat chicken breasts dry. Evenly rub the spice mix all over each piece.
- Heat butter or oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side, forming a dark, flavorful crust.
- Transfer seared chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Bake 10 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest 5 minutes before slicing to lock in juices.
