If you’re craving a quick and flavorful dinner with minimal effort, this Easy Blackened Chicken is your answer. Perfect for busy evenings and senior-friendly cooking, it’s packed with bold spices, requires no complicated prep, and is ready in just 30 minutes. Serve it with your favorite grain or veggies for a wholesome meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and simple: 30 minutes from start to finish.
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Bold, delicious flavor: Blackening spices create a crispy, flavorful crust.
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Healthy and versatile: High in protein, low in carbs, and easy to pair with any side.
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Senior-friendly: Minimal prep, no chopping, and gentle on the joints.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon paprika
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
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Salt to taste
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1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice (optional, for serving)
Directions
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Prep the chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick better.
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Mix the spices: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.
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Season the chicken: Rub the spice mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
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Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm over quinoa, brown rice, or steamed vegetables.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 2
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Prep time: 5 minutes
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Cook time: 12–14 minutes
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Total time: 25–30 minutes
Variations
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Milder flavor: Omit cayenne pepper for a more gentle taste.
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Spicy kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or increase cayenne for heat lovers.
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Add citrus: Finish with a squeeze of lemon or lime for a fresh touch.
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Use chicken thighs: Substitute breasts with boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
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Oven-baked option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Storage/reheating
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Storage: Refrigerate leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheating:
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Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water.
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Microwave: Heat for 1–2 minutes until warmed through.
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Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken tightly wrapped or in containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
What is blackened chicken?
Blackened chicken is coated in a flavorful spice blend and seared until a dark, crusty exterior forms—without burning.
Is this recipe spicy?
It can be mildly to moderately spicy depending on the amount of cayenne. You can omit it for a milder dish.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, but the blackening spice is best applied before cooking. If using precooked chicken, warm it in a skillet with the spice blend.
Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?
Absolutely. Grill over medium heat for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I use this seasoning for other proteins?
Yes, it works well with fish, shrimp, tofu, or even roasted vegetables.
What’s the best oil to use?
Olive oil is ideal, but avocado oil or canola oil also work well for searing.
How do I make sure the chicken stays moist?
Avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to remove the chicken right at 165°F.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes. Cook and slice the chicken, then store with grains or greens for easy lunches throughout the week.
What sides go well with blackened chicken?
Try it with rice, quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, green beans, or a crisp salad.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Just make sure not to overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches if needed.
Conclusion
This Easy Blackened Chicken recipe delivers big flavor with minimal ingredients and effort. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a reliable go-to for healthy weeknight dinners. Whether paired with grains, veggies, or salad, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the perfect balance of smoky, savory, and satisfying.
[tasty-recipe id=”18937″]