Description
Learn how to make a delicious and easy blackened chicken salad recipe that’s bursting with flavor. This quick and healthy meal offers the best in creamy, spicy, and fresh textures.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- For the Blackening Seasoning:
- 2 tbsp paprika (half sweet, half smoked recommended)
- 1–2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- For the Salad:
- ½ cup good quality mayonnaise
- ¼ cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup finely diced celery
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion
- ¼ cup finely diced bell pepper (any color)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken breasts completely dry. Pound to an even ¾-inch thickness. Drizzle with olive oil/melted butter, then coat generously with blackening seasoning.
- Make Blackening Seasoning: Combine paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium-high heat until smoking. Add chicken; cook 3-5 minutes per side until blackened and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Rest for 5-10 minutes, then dice.
- Craft Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble Salad: Add diced chicken, celery, red onion, bell pepper, and fresh herbs to the dressing. Mix gently until well coated.
- Chill & Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Serve chilled as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10-12 mins