This easy blackened chicken recipe makes the most tender juicy chicken all in one skillet! Eat it with a couple of sides, or use this blackened chicken for blackened chicken alfredo, salads, or sandwiches! There are many great options for this chicken.
1/4tspcayenne pepperor up to 1/2 tsp to taste (optional)
Instructions
To make the blackened seasoning, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, Old Bay, salt, and cayenne pepper (optional) and mix.
Lay the chicken thighs flat and sprinkle blackened seasonings on the first side, lightly pat them in, and then sprinkle the remaining seasoning on the back side and pat in. This can sit in the refrigerator for up to an hour seasoned.
Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat for 2-3 minutes, then reduce to medium high and add the butter.
Once the butter is melted and starting to brown, but not smoke, put the chicken thighs flat in the skillet. Do not crowd the skillet. Cook the chicken thighs in batches if necessary.
Let the chicken cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side without moving or checking it, then flip and cook 2 minutes on the other side. Then reduce heat to low, cover the pan and continue to cook until the chicken reaches an internal temp of 165˚F (about 2-3 more minutes.)
Remove the chicken from the skillet (to prevent it from continuing to cook) and serve warm with fresh parsley or freshly squeezed lemon if desired.
Notes
To make a true blackened seasoning use the cayenne and black pepper to create the spice.To create a milder, kid-friendly blackened chicken, sometimes called bronzed chicken, omit the cayenne and lightly season with black pepper.Find instructions for making a big batch of blackening seasoning here!