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If you’ve been searching for chicken breast recipes that deliver real flavor in minimal time, your answer is blackened chicken. Known for its deeply seasoned crust and juicy interior, blackened chicken fits perfectly into the lineup of quick dinner ideas and baked chicken recipes. With a cast iron skillet and oven, you get a smoky, spicy exterior and ultra-tender meat to serve in all your favorite shredded or ground chicken recipes.
Table of Contents
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Paprika | ½ teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Ground cumin | ¼ teaspoon |
| Dried thyme | ¼ teaspoon |
| Onion powder | ⅛ teaspoon |
| Ground white pepper | ⅛ teaspoon |
| Salt | ⅛ teaspoon |
| Chicken breasts (skinless, boneless) | 2 halves |
| Cooking spray | As needed |
Helpful Kitchen Equipment
- Cast iron skillet (shop)
- Baking sheet (shop)
- Instant-read thermometer (shop)
- Measuring cups & spoons (shop)
- Chef’s knife (shop)
- Cutting board (shop)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet with cooking spray.
- Heat your cast iron skillet on high for 3–5 minutes until smoking hot.
- In a bowl, combine paprika, cayenne pepper, ground cumin, dried thyme, onion powder, white pepper, and salt.
- Spray chicken breasts thoroughly with cooking spray. Coat both sides evenly with the spice blend.
- Place chicken breasts in the hot pan. Sear for 1 minute, then flip and sear for 1 more minute.
- Transfer the chicken to your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 5–10 minutes until fully cooked. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve immediately with favorite sides or slice for salads and wraps.
Tips for Perfect Blackened Chicken
- Use a cast iron skillet for best crust.
- Always preheat the pan until it’s smoking hot.
- Coat chicken thoroughly in spices for authentic flavor.
- Let chicken rest after baking for juicier results.
- Try slicing cooked chicken for sandwiches, tacos, salads, or meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grill instead of bake?
Yes blackened chicken works great on the grill! Adjust searing time for thickness, and always check with a thermometer.
How to keep blackened chicken juicy?
Quick sear plus oven finish seals juices while finishing internally to safe doneness.
Is blackened chicken spicy?
Cayenne adds a gentle kick; adjust to taste for milder palates.
Can I use thighs or ground chicken?
This method works for boneless thighs and also inspires flavorful ground chicken stir fries!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Love
PrintBlackened Chicken Breast Recipe
Juicy blackened chicken breasts crusted with Cajun spices, baked to perfection quick, bold, and flavorful for weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Bake and Sear
- Cuisine: American / Cajun
Ingredients
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon ground cumin
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
⅛ teaspoon onion powder
⅛ teaspoon ground white pepper
⅛ teaspoon salt
2 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
cooking spray
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray baking sheet.
2. Heat cast iron skillet on high until smoking hot (3–5 min).
3. Mix spices in small bowl.
4. Spray chicken breasts and coat with spice mix.
5. Sear chicken in pan for 1 min per side.
6. Transfer chicken to baking sheet; bake 5–10 min until 165°F.
7. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Let chicken rest after baking for juicier results.
Adjust cayenne for spice preference.
Use skillet with oven-safe handle.
Perfect for salads, wraps, or meal prep.
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