Blackened Seasoning is an incredibly versatile spice blend to keep in your pantry. This blackened seasoning recipe is simple to make with common pantry spices and adds bold flavor to fish, chicken, shrimp, and more.
Easy Blackened Seasoning
This seasoning is my go-to when I want to boost flavor quickly. The ingredients are straightforward and likely already in your cupboard. Use it to make easy blackened salmon, cajun blackened chicken, or grilled blackened shrimp. It works equally well on the grill, in a smoker, or on the stovetop. If you try it on salmon, consider serving with a cooling dill sauce or a rice bowl to balance the spice.
What You Will Need
- Paprika – you can use smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky note.
- Onion powder + garlic powder – classic aromatics that pair well together.
- Cayenne pepper + chipotle pepper – these provide heat and a touch of smoky chile flavor. Increase the cayenne to raise the spice level.
- Dried oregano + dried thyme – add earthy, savory depth to the blend.
- Kosher salt + ground black pepper – essential seasoning to round out the mix.
What is Blackened Seasoning
Blackened seasoning is closely related to Cajun seasoning: both combine savory dried herbs and bold spices for a spicy, aromatic profile. Blackened seasoning is robust and punchy but can be adjusted for milder or hotter preferences by varying the cayenne and chipotle amounts.
How to Make Blackened Seasoning
Step 1: Measure the spices into a small bowl and stir until evenly combined.
Step 2: Sprinkle or rub the seasoning onto your protein of choice and cook as desired.
One favorite use is blackened salmon with a dill sauce — the cool, herby sauce balances the spice beautifully.
Other Blackened Recipes You Might Like
Grilled Blackened Shrimp
Shrimp
Blackened Salmon Tacos + Cilantro Lime Crema
Fish
Blackened Salmon Bowl
One Bowl Meals
Blackened Chicken
Chicken
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Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon chipotle pepper
Instructions
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Combine: In a small bowl, add 1 tablespoon paprika, 2 teaspoons onion powder, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, and ¼ teaspoon chipotle pepper. Stir until well combined.
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Serve: Use the seasoning on your favorite protein. It’s excellent on blackened salmon, chicken, or shrimp.
Notes
- Spice: Increase the cayenne by another ½ teaspoon for more heat.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the pantry for up to 6 months.
- Use: Great for baked blackened salmon, blackened chicken breast, or grilled blackened shrimp.
Nutrition
| Carbohydrates: 4g
| Protein: 1g
| Fat: 0.3g
Other Seasoning Recipes You Might Like
Prime Rib Seasoning
Pot Roast Seasoning
Dry Rub for Ribs
Smoked Chicken Dry Rub