Blackened Chicken Cajun Spiced Breasts (Print Version)
Juicy chicken breasts with spicy smoky Cajun seasoning, seared for a perfect crisp crust in just 25 minutes.
# What You Need:
→ Chicken
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
→ Spice Blend
02 - 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
05 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
06 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
07 - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
08 - 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
09 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
→ For Cooking
10 - 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
11 - Lemon wedges, for serving
# Directions:
01 - Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning adherence and crust formation.
02 - Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl until evenly distributed.
03 - Brush both sides of chicken breasts with olive oil or melted butter, then press spice mixture generously onto each piece, ensuring full coverage.
04 - Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot, approximately 3 minutes.
05 - Place chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until a dark, crispy crust forms on the bottom.
06 - Flip chicken breasts and cook another 4–5 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
07 - Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 3 minutes to redistribute juices. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
# Insider Tips:
01 -
- The spice rub creates an incredible crust that locks in juices
- Ready in under 30 minutes but tastes like a restaurant meal
- Perfect for meal prep and stays tender all week long
02 -
- That dark crust is not burned, it is the maillard reaction creating incredible flavor
- Letting the chicken rest after cooking is crucial for juicy meat
- Do not overcrowd the pan or the chicken will steam instead of sear
03 -
- Pound the chicken to even thickness before seasoning for perfectly uniform cooking
- Open a window or turn on your fan when searing, the spices can get aromatic