Is blackened chicken the same as cajun chicken?

Blackened chicken and cajun chicken share similar seasoning blends but differ in cooking methods. To develop the signature charred crust, blackening requires high-heat cooking in a cast iron skillet. Cajun chicken can be prepared in a variety of ways, ranging from grilled to baked to pan-fried.

What is the difference between grilled and blackened chicken?

Blackened chicken is seared in oil or butter in a very hot cast iron skillet. Grilled chicken is prepared over an open-flame grill.

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?

While I have not tested this recipe using bone-in chicken thighs, I think bone-in would work with some modifications. You would only need to sear the skin side of the chicken and then will most likely need to increase your cooking time.

Blackened Chicken Thighs (Boneless)

Name: Blackened Chicken Thighs (Boneless)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons cooking oil (avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil); Kosher salt; 8 small boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)

Blackened Chicken Thighs (Boneless)

Sliced chicken thighs on a plate with a fork and knife.

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

You only need chicken thighs and a handful of pantry spices to make these boldly-flavored blackened chicken thighs. Made in just 30 minutes from start to finish, they’re simple to prepare and can be served in a variety of ways. Add them to wraps, sandwiches, and salads, or make them the main meal paired with an easy side dish!

Author: Katie
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet Cooking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

2 teaspoons smoked paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons cooking oil (avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil)
Kosher salt
8 small boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F.
In a small bowl, mix all the blackening spices except for the salt.
While you prep the chicken, heat the oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat.
Season both sides of the chicken thighs with kosher salt. Season them to your liking.
Generously coat both sides of the chicken thighs with the blackening spice blend, pressing it lightly to help it stick.
Place the first batch of chicken thighs in a single layer in the hot skillet. Allow for space between the chicken thighs. You'll complete this step in 2-3 batches, depending on the size of your pan.
Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until blackened. Transfer to a clean plate and repeat with the remaining chicken.
Return all the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, allowing them to overlap if needed. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

My 12-inch Lodge cast iron skillet is my go-to for blackening chicken, pork chops, and fish. Cast iron distributes heat evenly, can go straight from the stovetop to the oven, and maintains high temperatures better than other cookware. If you’re looking for that signature charred crust, a cast iron skillet is a must!
Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Boneless thighs benefit from bold seasoning since they lack the crispy skin of bone-in options.
Cooked chicken thighs will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days if stored properly in an airtight container.
The nutrition information shown below is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice.

Nutrition

Serving Size:
Calories: 433
Sugar: 0.2 g
Sodium: 905.4 mg
Fat: 19.5 g
Carbohydrates: 2.6 g
Fiber: 0.8 g
Protein: 59.1 g
Cholesterol: 280.1 mg

Find it online: https://sugarandsnappeas.com/blackened-chicken-thighs-boneless/