Blackened Chicken Breasts
Blackened chicken breasts with bold spices and smoky flavor, perfect for grilling or skillet cooking. Ideal for a quick, flavorful meal or sandwich option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together all spices.
- Coat each chicken breast with approximately 1 tablespoon of spice mixture and baste with melted margarine.
- Grill, basting with margarine after turning once, or cook in a skillet in hot oil.
- Serve on a bun with mayo, lettuce, and tomato if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To boost flavor, let the spice mixture sit on the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the cayenne pepper to a pinch or skip it altogether. For a healthier fat option, substitute melted margarine with olive oil. This recipe can also be adapted for grilled shrimp, similar to Spring Break Shrimp, for a seafood twist.
Serving Suggestions
This blackened chicken is delicious served on a toasted bun with mayo, lettuce, and tomato. For a complete meal, pair it with a side of coleslaw or roasted vegetables. It also complements well with a refreshing salad or can be sliced and added to pasta dishes like Chicken Spaghetti Or Noodles for a flavorful twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, use a microwave, covering the chicken with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blackened Chicken Breasts contains roughly 469 calories, with 16g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (261% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1794mg per serving (78% 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 breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts for added flavor and moisture. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as the skin may need a little longer to crisp up. The spice mixture will still adhere well and provide that signature blackened taste.
What can I serve with blackened chicken?
Blackened chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or creamy coleslaw. For a heartier option, try pairing it with seasoned rice or roasted sweet potatoes for a balanced meal.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To amp up the heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the spice mixture or add a dash of hot sauce to the melted margarine before basting. You can also serve the chicken with a spicy dipping sauce or salsa for an extra kick.
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).