Blackened Chicken Burger * Recipe
Make Blackened Chicken Burger * Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Blackened Chicken
Burger Assembly
Method
Blackened Chicken
- 1
Flatten and prep
If the chicken breasts are uneven, butterfly them or place each between two sheets of plastic wrap and lightly pound to an even thickness about 3/4 inch. Pat dry with paper towels.
- 2
Make spice blend
In a small bowl combine paprika, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, and kosher salt. Stir to evenly incorporate.
- 3
Season chicken
Brush both sides of each chicken breast with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil (reserve remaining). Press the spice blend onto both sides so chicken is well coated and the spices adhere.
- 4
Preheat skillet
Heat a large cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat until very hot, about 3–5 minutes. Add the unsalted butter and remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and swirl to melt.
- 5
Blacken and cook
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes until a dark crust forms. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If using thicker breasts, reduce heat to medium and cover for 2–3 minutes to finish cooking fully.
- 6
Melt cheese and rest
In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each breast and cover the skillet for 30–60 seconds to melt. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil; rest 5 minutes before assembling.
Burger Assembly
- 7
Prepare toppings
While the chicken rests, slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds and thinly slice the red onion. Tear or wash lettuce leaves and pat dry. Toast the burger buns cut-side down in a dry skillet or under a broiler until lightly golden, about 1–2 minutes.
- 8
Make quick lemon mayo
In a small bowl combine the mayonnaise and fresh lemon juice. Stir until smooth and season to taste with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- 9
Assemble burgers
Spread about 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons of lemon mayo on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a lettuce leaf, then a blackened chicken breast (slice in half crosswise if breasts are large), add a tomato slice, 2–3 rings of red onion, and 2 pickle slices. Cap with the top bun smeared lightly with remaining mayo if desired.
- 10
Serve
Serve immediately while chicken is warm and cheese is melty. Optional sides: fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad.