Blackened Chicken Breast
A flavorful blackened chicken breast with a smoky spice rub, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or grilling enthusiasts seeking bold, spicy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat a medium cast-iron skillet over high heat for 15 minutes, or until very hot.
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, salt, ground red pepper, ground cumin, ground thyme, ground white pepper, and onion powder; mix well and set aside.
- Spray one side of the chicken breast with nonstick vegetable cooking spray and sprinkle with half of the seasoning mixture.
- Place the seasoned side of the chicken in the very hot skillet and cook for 1 minute.
- Flip the chicken, spray the other side with cooking spray, and sprinkle with the remaining seasoning; cook for 1 minute on this side as well.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a small baking sheet that has been sprayed with nonstick vegetable cooking spray.
- Bake for 5 minutes in the preheated oven.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, let the seasoning mixture sit for a few minutes before applying it to the chicken. If you prefer milder heat, reduce the amount of ground red pepper. For a smoky flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika. This recipe can also be adapted for grilling; just ensure the grill is heated properly before cooking the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the blackened chicken breast with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the spice. It pairs beautifully with Chicken With Apples And Cheese for a delightful meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it over brown rice or alongside quinoa for added nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover blackened chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but this may result in a less crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blackened Chicken Breast contains roughly 16 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken; however, the skin may not become as crispy as it would if cooked without it. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it's fully cooked through.
What can I serve with blackened chicken?
Blackened chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a refreshing coleslaw, roasted sweet potatoes, or a grain like brown rice or quinoa for a balanced meal. It also complements citrus-based salads nicely.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the seasoning mixture in advance and season the chicken a few hours before cooking. However, it's best to cook the chicken fresh for the optimal texture and flavor. You can also marinate the chicken for a few hours for deeper flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).