Blackened Chicken

Ingredients

• 1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 lemon wedges (optional)

Steps

1. Pat chicken breasts dry and slice each breast in half horizontally to create 8 thinner cutlets.
2. In a small bowl, combine paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper to make the blackening seasoning.
3. Melt butter in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it begins to foam and brown slightly.
4. Dredge each chicken cutlet thoroughly in the blackening seasoning, ensuring it is well coated.
5. Carefully place seasoned chicken into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook in batches if necessary.
6. Sear chicken for 2-4 minutes per side, until a dark crust forms and chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove chicken from skillet and serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.