Keto Blackened Chicken
The ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist, Keto Blackened Chicken is a flavorful, easy weeknight dinner that will satisfy your cravings. With its perfectly blackened crust and juicy interior, it's a dish you'll want to make over and over again. Try it tonight!
Equipment
- Skillet
- Whisk
- Mixing Bowl
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts about 1/2 lb. each
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian Seasoning herbs
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons canola oil divided
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. This is crucial for achieving that perfect blackened crust.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together all the seasonings: paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure they are well combined to ensure even seasoning.
- Dry the chicken breasts with paper towels, which is vital for getting a good sear. Coat them on both sides with two tablespoons of canola oil. This helps the seasoning stick and gives flavor.
- Next, toss both sides in the seasoning mixture, pressing it with your fingers. Ensure that the chicken is generously coated in the spices.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy frying pan over high heat until it's smoking hot, about five minutes. This high heat is what will blacken the chicken.
- Add just one tablespoon of canola oil to the skillet and brush it over the surface. This creates a non-stick layer.
- Now, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds on each side to blacken them beautifully. You want that perfect crust to form.
- Once blackened, transfer the skillet to the oven to finish cooking for another 12 to 15 minutes. The chicken should no longer be pink in the center, and the internal temperature should reach 160 degrees F.
- Remove the chicken to a platter and cover it with foil. Allow it to rest for five minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, making the chicken even more delicious.
- After resting, slice the Keto Blackened Chicken and serve it hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the dish. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.