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blackened chicken bites

15-Minute Blackened Chicken Bites

Delicious 15-Minute Blackened Chicken Bites recipe with step-by-step instructions.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 750
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

For the seasoning rub
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper (freshly ground preferred for more heat)
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika (McCormick brand preferred)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp basil
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp light brown sugar
For the chicken
  • 1.5 lb chicken (cut into 1-inch chunks to ensure even searing)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (Bertolli brand preferred for high-heat cooking)

Method
 

  1. Combine salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, thyme, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Stir well to evenly distribute all spices. I like to make this spice blend in advance because it ensures the spices are fully incorporated and ready to coat the chicken evenly without any clumping.
  2. Cut the chicken into 1-inch chunks for even cooking and uniform searing. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and pour the spice blend from Step 1 over them. Toss thoroughly, making sure every piece is well-coated with the spices. This step is crucial—each bite should have that signature blackened crust, so don't rush the coating process.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, about 1-2 minutes. Working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, add the spiced chicken pieces and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until a dark crust forms on the bottom. Flip each piece and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer. I recommend checking a few pieces to ensure they're cooked through, especially the thickest chunks, since uneven pieces can cook at different rates.