Make perfectly seasoned blackened chicken with a smoky, flavorful crust and a tender, juicy center. This easy stovetop recipe delivers bold flavor in under an hour and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, salads, or wraps for a satisfying meal any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This blackened chicken is a simple yet powerful way to elevate your dinner routine. The homemade spice blend creates a rich, smoky crust while keeping the inside moist and tender. It’s made with pantry-friendly ingredients, requires minimal prep, and cooks quickly in a single skillet.
It’s also incredibly versatile. Slice it over creamy Alfredo pasta, serve it with rice or mashed potatoes, tuck it into wraps, or add it to fresh salads for a protein-packed meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers reliable, bold flavor every time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (2 large breasts, sliced horizontally to make 4 thinner cutlets)
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon black pepper (or substitute ¼ teaspoon black pepper and ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for extra heat)
Directions
Prepare the chicken by slicing each breast horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This ensures even cooking and a better sear.
Place the chicken in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Add the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, onion powder, and black pepper.
Toss or massage the chicken until all pieces are evenly coated in the seasoning mixture. Let it marinate at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Heat a large skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium heat. Allow it to become hot before adding the chicken.
Place the chicken in the skillet in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 5 minutes on the first side without moving it, allowing a dark crust to form.
Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155–160°F.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a cutting board. Cover loosely with foil and let it rest for 5 minutes. The temperature will rise to 165°F as it rests.
Slice and serve over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite salad.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 15–30 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover blackened chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place slices in the microwave and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
What does blackened chicken mean?
Blackened chicken refers to chicken coated in a bold spice blend and cooked at high heat to create a dark, flavorful crust. The exterior looks deeply charred, but it should not taste burnt.
Is blackened chicken spicy?
It has a mild kick from black pepper. You can increase the heat by adding cayenne pepper or reduce it by using less pepper.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work very well. They may require slightly longer cooking time due to their thickness.
Do I need a cast iron skillet?
A cast iron skillet is recommended for the best crust, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will work if preheated properly.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use an instant-read thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F after resting.
Why is my chicken dry?
Overcooking is the most common cause. Remove the chicken from heat at 155–160°F and allow it to finish cooking while resting.
Can I bake this instead of pan-searing?
Yes. Bake at 400°F for 18–22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. However, you may not achieve the same deep crust as pan-searing.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes. You can season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
What can I serve with blackened chicken?
It pairs well with Alfredo pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, salads, or tucked inside wraps and sandwiches.
Can I use this seasoning blend on other proteins?
Absolutely. This spice blend works well on fish, shrimp, and even vegetables for a smoky, bold flavor.
Conclusion
This blackened chicken recipe is a simple yet impressive way to bring bold, smoky flavor to your dinner table. With a perfectly seasoned crust and juicy interior, it’s a versatile dish that works with countless sides and serving styles. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a reliable go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
