Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 mouth-watering spicy blackened chicken recipes! Blackening seasoning adds a bold, smoky flavor to this versatile protein, making it perfect for everything from pasta and tacos to sandwiches and salads. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like Cajun blackened chicken with garlic butter or looking to spice things up with blackened chicken and avocado quesadillas, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of spicy blackened chicken recipes that will take your meals to the next level. From comfort food classics like mac and cheese to global-inspired dishes like jambalaya and fajitas, these bold and flavorful recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Cajun Blackened Chicken with Garlic Butter
This bold recipe combines the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning with the richness of garlic butter, creating a mouthwatering blackened chicken dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with the spice mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Place chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent Blackened Chicken Alfredo Pasta recipe! Spicy blackened chicken pairs perfectly with creamy alfredo sauce and fettuccine noodles, making for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 8 oz fettuccine noodles
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook in butter until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side.
3. Cook fettuccine noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add cooked chicken to the cream sauce and stir to coat.
6. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Chicken Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico and the Caribbean with this unique recipe that combines spicy blackened chicken with sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
For the Blackened Chicken:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Brush both sides of chicken with olive oil, then sprinkle with the spice mixture.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
6. Slice grilled chicken into strips and serve with mango salsa and your favorite taco toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Chicken Caesar Salad
A twist on the classic Caesar salad, this recipe adds a spicy kick from blackening seasoning and crispy chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 4 cups romaine lettuce
– 1 cup croutons
– 1/2 cup shaved parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp Caesar dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with blackening seasoning. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Chop grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan cheese.
5. Add Caesar dressing and toss to coat.
6. Top salad with blackened chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with the bold flavors of blackened chicken, creamy avocado, and crispy tortillas. This recipe combines spicy and savory elements for a deliciously addictive snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken with blackening seasoning and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Add sliced avocado on top of the cheese.
5. Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips and add to the tortilla.
6. Fold the tortilla in half and cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve warm, topped with additional cheese, sour cream, salsa, and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Savory blackened chicken meets sweet bell peppers in this flavorful twist on a classic stuffed pepper recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these peppers are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp blackened seasoning (such as Tony’s or Old Bay)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until blackened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and sprinkle with cheese (if using). Return to oven and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Blackened Chicken Jambalaya
Savor the bold flavors of this spicy jambalaya dish, featuring blackened chicken and a medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together blackening seasoning and olive oil. Add the chicken breasts and coat evenly.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve the blackened chicken on top of cooked white rice, surrounded by the spicy vegetable mixture. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blackened Chicken Sandwich with Chipotle Mayo
Elevate your lunch game with this bold Blackened Chicken Sandwich featuring smoky chipotle mayo. This flavorful combination is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and cheese (optional)
– Chipotle Mayo (recipe below)
Chipotle Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 tsp lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with blackening seasoning and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, mix chipotle mayo ingredients in a bowl.
4. Assemble sandwiches by spreading chipotle mayo on each bun, then topping with a blackened chicken breast, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and cheese (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Chicken and Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these bold and flavorful skewers featuring blackened chicken and shrimp. A perfect blend of spicy and savory, this recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon blackening seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together blackening seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add chicken and shrimp to the marinade; toss to coat. Let sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Thread marinated pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Blackened Chicken Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
Savor the bold flavors of the Lone Star State with these spicy blackened chicken fajitas, packed with sautéed peppers and onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (blackened seasoning)
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Add chicken; coat evenly.
3. Cook chicken 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to plate; cover with foil to keep warm.
4. In same skillet, add olive oil, onion, and bell peppers. Cook 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping in damp paper towels and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble fajitas by slicing chicken and adding to tortillas with sautéed peppers and onions. Serve with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blackened Chicken Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the creamy richness of macaroni and cheese, adding juicy chicken for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium, then add remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, flour, blackening seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth, cooking for 2 minutes.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheese, and cooked chicken. Pour in blackened sauce and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Blackened Chicken Cobb Salad
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackened chicken with the classic components of a cobb salad, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup crumbled bacon
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken with blackening seasoning and cook in olive oil for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, pecans, and bacon.
5. Add sliced chicken to the salad and drizzle with lemon juice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Chicken and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl. A perfect blend of spicy and savory, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season the chicken with blackening seasoning and cook in a skillet until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add corn kernels and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to the chowder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Blackened Chicken Pizza with Spicy Ranch
Experience the bold flavors of New Orleans on a pizza! This recipe combines the spicy kick of blackened chicken with the creaminess of ranch dressing, all on top of a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 1 cup pizza dough
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup spicy ranch dressing
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., bell peppers, onions, olives)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and blackening seasoning. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Grill or cook the chicken until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Place on a baking sheet.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, blackened chicken, and your choice of toppings.
6. Drizzle spicy ranch dressing over the top.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This quick and flavorful recipe combines the bold flavors of blackened chicken with a colorful medley of vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken with blackening seasoning. Add oil to the pan and cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the bell pepper and broccoli to the pan and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for an additional minute to combine flavors.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
A spicy twist on traditional chicken and sweet potatoes, this recipe combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon blackening seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare chicken by seasoning both sides with blackening seasoning. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Serve roasted sweet potato hash alongside blackened chicken breasts. Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Blackened Chicken Burrito Bowl
Transform your lunch game with this bold and flavorful Blackened Chicken Burrito Bowl! This recipe combines the richness of blackened chicken with the comfort of a warm burrito bowl, topped with fresh vegetables and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 avocado, sliced
– Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; cook chicken until blackened, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.
5. In a separate pan, sauté diced red bell pepper until tender.
6. Assemble burrito bowls by placing cooked chicken, rice, black beans, and bell pepper in a bowl.
7. Top with sliced avocado and serve with lime wedges (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blackened Chicken Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and savory recipe that combines the bold flavors of blackened chicken with the earthy goodness of stuffed mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stemmed
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the blackened chicken mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Top each mushroom with grated cheddar cheese and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blackened Chicken and Grits
A classic Southern dish that combines spicy blackened chicken with creamy stone-ground grits, perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook for 5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Stir in cheese until melted.
5. Serve blackened chicken atop warm grits, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blackened Chicken Wings with Blue Cheese Dip
Elevate your wing game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the spicy kick of blackening seasoning with the tanginess of blue cheese. Perfect for a sports party or a night in with friends.
Ingredients:
For the chicken wings:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 teaspoons blackening seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the blue cheese dip:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, blackening seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken wings and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the wings on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, mix together cream cheese, blue cheese, and mayonnaise.
7. Serve the blackened chicken wings with the creamy blue cheese dip.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 bold and delicious blackened chicken recipes! From classic Cajun Blackened Chicken with Garlic Butter to innovative dishes like Blackened Chicken Tacos with Mango Salsa, there’s something for everyone. Try Blackened Chicken Alfredo Pasta or Blackened Chicken Stuffed Peppers for a hearty meal. For a twist, go for Blackened Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas or Blackened Chicken Pizza with Spicy Ranch. Whether you’re in the mood for a sandwich, salad, or skillet dinner, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.