Blackened Chicken Tacos
Spice up your taco night with smoky blackened chicken tacos. Juicy chicken thighs are coated in a robust blend of spices and cooked to perfection, creating a deliciously crispy crust.
Equipment
- 1 Cast-iron skillet
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Tongs
Ingredients
Spice Blend
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Chicken
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs boneless and skinless
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Taco Assembly
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 avocado sliced
- 1 lime sliced into wedges
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Coat each piece evenly with the spice blend, ensuring all surfaces are covered.
Cooking
- Place a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and allow it to heat until shimmering.
- Place the chicken thighs in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until the exterior is blackened, and the chicken is cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
Assembly
- While the chicken rests, warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave until soft and pliable.
- Slice the rested chicken thighs. Place a few slices on each tortilla, and top with cilantro, diced onions, and avocado slices. Serve with lime wedges.
Serving
- Enjoy your blackened chicken tacos fresh and hot for the best taste and texture.
Storage
- Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Notes
Pro Tips: Ensure chicken is dry before seasoning for a good crust. Ingredient Substitutions: Use chicken breasts if preferred, adjust cooking time. How to Serve: Best served with fresh toppings and warm tortillas. Storage & Freshness: Store chicken separately from toppings for best results. Make-Ahead Tips: Spice blend can be prepared in advance.