Blackened chicken is chicken that has been dipped in or brushed with butter, seasoned with a bold mixture of seasonings, called “blackened seasoning” or “blackening seasoning”, then seared over high heat, usually in a cast iron skillet. The combination of seasoning, butter and high heat develops a dark crust on the chicken that gives it its characteristic charred look and spicy flavor. You can also achieve this on the grill or in an oven, usually with the broiler, but a cast iron skillet or very hot pan is really the best tool for blackening foods. The seasoning is very similar to Cajun Seasoning or Creole Seasoning, with a mix of chili powders, spices and herbs. It is definitely one of my go-to seasoning blends. You can make your own blend to fit your own personal tastes. See my Homemade Blackened Seasoning Recipe to start from. I love to slip in a bit of ghost pepper powder into my mix for an extra spicy blend. Spice it up, my friends! It’s such a great spice rub.
Smoked Paprika Cayenne Powder Onion Powder Garlic Powder Ground Black Pepper Sea Salt Dried Basil Dried Oregano Dried Thyme
For the chicken:
Chicken Breasts Butter Lemon Juice
Garnishes:
Sliced Jalapeños or Serrano Peppers Fresh Chopped Parsley Spicy Chili Flakes
Season the chicken. Brush one side of each chicken breast (or thigh) generously with melted butter. Generously spoon on the blackening seasoning. I like to season mine in a large bowl to get everything evenly coated. Blacken the chicken. Heat a large cast iron skillet to high heat and add the chicken breast, buttery-seasoned side down. Cook chicken 3-5 minutes to blacken. You’ll get a better sear with medium-high heat to high heat than medium heat. Add more butter and seasoning. Brush or drizzle on the remaining butter, then generously add more seasoning. Cook the chicken. Flip the chicken and cook another 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. It should measure 165°F. internal temperature when measured with a meat thermometer. If needed, you can preheat the oven to 350°F then finish cooking the chicken in the oven to come to temp. Cooking times will vary, depending on the thickness of your chicken. IF DESIRED: Just after you flip the chicken, add some sliced jalapeno peppers or serrano peppers to the pan for extra heat and for serving with the chicken. Squeeze on lemon juice. Garnish with sliced peppers, fresh chopped parsley, spicy chili flakes and serve!
