Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that brings the bold flavors of the South right to your dinner table! This Blackened Chicken and Rice recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that combines the smoky, spicy goodness of perfectly seasoned chicken with the comforting embrace of fluffy rice and sautéed veggies. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a dinner that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Are you ready to impress? Let’s dive into the mouthwatering details of this culinary delight!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by patting chicken breasts dry with paper towels and generously coating each breast with blackening seasoning on both sides, ensuring even coverage.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until oil is shimmering and just before smoking point.
- Carefully place seasoned chicken breasts into hot skillet, cooking for approximately 5-6 minutes on each side until exterior is dark and crispy, and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a clean plate, allowing to rest and retain juices.
- In the same skillet, sauté diced onions and bell peppers for 3-4 minutes until they become slightly softened and develop light caramelization.
- Add chicken broth to the skillet, scraping any browned bits from bottom of pan to enhance flavor, and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Prepare cooked rice according to package instructions, fluffing with a fork when completed.
- Slice rested chicken breasts against the grain into thin strips.
- Plate rice, top with sautéed vegetables, arrange sliced blackened chicken over the top, and season with additional salt if desired.
- Serve immediately while chicken is hot and crispy, enjoying the rich, spicy flavors of the Southern-style dish.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, prep your ingredients in advance. Dice the onions and bell peppers, and have your chicken breasts ready to go. This will streamline the cooking process and keep you organized.
- Perfect Blackening: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. A well-heated pan will give you that signature crispy, dark exterior that defines blackened chicken.
- Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let your chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or corn for extra color and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions and bell peppers.
- Adjust the Spice: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a lighter hand on the blackening seasoning. You can always add more to taste as you go.
- Serve with Style: For a beautiful presentation, layer the rice, sautéed vegetables, and sliced chicken artfully on the plate. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a pop of color and freshness.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. The flavors will meld even more overnight, making for a delicious lunch the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
