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Spicy Cajun Chicken

A flavorful and bold chicken dish featuring a crispy, smoky spice crust finished with a bright lemon-garlic pan sauce.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs about 600g
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • to taste fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Cast-iron skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  2. Combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
  3. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over chicken, then rub with the spice mixture until evenly coated.
  4. Let chicken rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  5. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for 2 minutes.
  6. Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter to the skillet.
  7. Place chicken in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes until deep golden brown.
  8. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  9. Add minced garlic and lemon juice in the last minute of cooking, stirring to coat.
  10. Transfer to a plate, spoon pan juices over the chicken, garnish with parsley, and rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry for the best crust. Rest for 5 minutes after cooking to ensure the chicken remains juicy.