Why You’ll Love Cajun Blackened Chicken Recipe
This Cajun Blackened Chicken delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. The spice blend creates a smoky, zesty crust that contrasts beautifully with tender chicken. It’s quick to make, versatile in how you serve it, and easy to adjust for your heat preference.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Blackened Seasoning
paprika
salt
cayenne pepper
dried thyme
dried basil
dried oregano
ground black pepper
onion powder
garlic powder
Chicken
boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
olive oil or cooking spray
Directions
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Combine all the blackening seasoning ingredients in a small bowl.
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Prepare the chicken by coating both sides with olive oil or spraying with cooking spray.
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Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.
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Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot.
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Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cover the skillet. Cook for about 7–8 minutes on one side.
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Flip the chicken breasts and cook another 7–8 minutes until fully cooked through and the exterior is dark and crusty.
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Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: about 5 minutes
Cook time: about 20 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes
Variations
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Milder Version: Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a less spicy version.
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Grilled Option: Grill the chicken over high heat for a smokier flavor.
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Thighs Instead of Breasts: Use boneless chicken thighs for juicier results.
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Herb Swap: Substitute Italian seasoning for a slightly different flavor twist.
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Cajun Alfredo: Slice the blackened chicken and serve over pasta with a creamy Alfredo sauce.
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Taco Filling: Dice the cooked chicken for use in tacos or burritos.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover blackened chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or oil to keep the meat moist. Alternatively, reheat briefly in a preheated oven until heated through.
FAQs
What is blackened chicken?
Blackened chicken is chicken coated in a spice blend and cooked in a very hot skillet so the seasoning crust turns dark and flavorful without burning.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless thighs or even bone‑in pieces; just adjust cooking time so the meat is cooked through.
How spicy is this recipe?
The heat comes mainly from cayenne pepper — you can reduce or omit it to make the dish milder.
Do I need a cast iron skillet?
A cast iron skillet works best for high heat and even searing, but a heavy nonstick pan will also work.
What should I serve with blackened chicken?
Serve it with rice, roasted vegetables, salad, or in tacos and sandwiches for a complete meal.
Can I make the seasoning ahead of time?
Yes, make a larger batch of the blackening seasoning and store it in a sealed jar for future use.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Can I grill this chicken instead?
Yes — grill over high heat, flipping once, until the seasoning chars and the chicken is cooked through.
Is this recipe gluten‑free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten‑free as long as all seasoning and ingredients used are gluten‑free.
Can leftovers be frozen?
Yes, freeze cooked chicken in a freezer‑safe container for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
Cajun Blackened Chicken is a simple but bold dish that transforms ordinary chicken into a flavorful entrée with minimal effort. With its savory spice crust, quick cooking time, and versatility, it’s sure to become a favorite in your rotation. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste and pair it with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal every time.
