Description

Welcome to a delicious culinary journey where bold flavors meet juicy, tender chicken! If you’ve been searching for the perfect Blackened Chicken recipe, you’re in for a treat. This dish features a beautiful blend of spices that give a smoky and spicy kick, making it a must-try for anyone who loves southern-inspired dishes. Whether you’re looking for a flavorful dinner option or a new favorite recipe to impress your guests, this Blackened Chicken is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

Blackened Chicken:

1½ – 2 lbs chicken breast, boneless/skinless
1 tbsp olive oil
¾ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cayenne pepper
½ tsp dried thyme
¾ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp fresh ground black pepper
¼ tsp dried oregano
¼ tsp salt

Coconut Rice:

1½ cups long grain white rice
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1¼ cup water
1 tsp white granulated sugar (optional)
2 tbsp fresh chopped cilantro (optional)

Cilantro Lime Dressing:

1 cup fresh cilantro
⅓ cup olive oil
¼ cup fresh lime juice (about one lime)
1½ tsp maple syrup
1 garlic clove
½ tsp salt

Optional Toppings:

½ cup red cabbage, shredded
⅓ cup finely chopped pineapple
1 sliced avocado

Feel free to substitute ingredients based on your dietary preferences, such as using brown rice instead of white, or opting for a non-dairy milk alternative for the rice.

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2:

In a small bowl, combine all the seasonings: smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, oregano, and salt. Mix well until thoroughly blended.

Step 3:

Pat your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. If the breasts are particularly large, consider cutting them in half for a more even cook.

Step 4:

Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken, making sure every bit of the breast is covered.

Step 5:

In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear for about 4 minutes on each side until a nice crust forms.

Step 6:

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 16-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 7:

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the coconut rice. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water, then add it to a medium-sized saucepan along with coconut milk, water, and sugar. Cover and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 8:

For the cilantro lime dressing, place all the ingredients in a small blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 9:

Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Slice into strips if desired.

Step 10:

Assemble the dish by placing a bed of coconut rice on each plate, topped with the blackened chicken, a drizzle of cilantro lime dressing, and your preferred optional toppings like red cabbage, pineapple, and avocado.

Notes

Use a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet: This is crucial for getting the perfect char on the chicken without burning.
Pat the chicken dry: This helps the spice rub stick and ensures a nice crust.
Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper.
Let the chicken rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat juicy and tender.