If you love bold, smoky flavors with just the right amount of kick, then this Homemade Blackened Seasoning for Chicken, Salmon, and Veggies Recipe is going to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen. It’s a vibrant blend of spices that transforms simple ingredients into something seriously unforgettable. Whether you’re grilling chicken, pan-searing salmon, or roasting veggies, this seasoning brings that signature blackened crust and a complex depth of flavor that feels both fiery and comforting. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up using pantry staples, so you can have it ready whenever the craving hits.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this perfect blackened seasoning just right hinges on simple, well-balanced ingredients. Each spice plays a key role in building layers of flavor, from the smoky warmth of paprika to the herbal notes of oregano and thyme. Together, they create a vibrant, aromatic mix that’s as versatile as it is delicious.
- Sweet paprika: Adds a gentle sweetness and rich color to the seasoning mix.
- Smoked paprika: Brings a deep, smoky flavor that’s essential for authentic blackened seasoning.
- Cayenne pepper: Injects fiery heat that wakes up your taste buds without overpowering.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps create that famous crust.
- Granulated onion powder: Provides a savory background flavor that blends seamlessly.
- Granulated garlic powder: Adds a lovely pungency and depth of aroma.
- Granulated sugar: Balances the heat with a subtle touch of sweetness.
- Ground black pepper: Gives a sharp, peppery bite to round out the seasoning.
- Dried oregano: Contributes herbal earthiness and complexity.
- Dried thyme: Lends a fragrant, slightly minty note that lifts the mix.
How to Make Homemade Blackened Seasoning for Chicken, Salmon, and Veggies Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Spices
Start with a small bowl and whisk together every ingredient thoroughly—sweet paprika, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, granulated onion and garlic powders, sugar, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. Giving it a good mix ensures each pinch delivers an even hit of flavor.
Step 2: Store in an Airtight Jar
Once blended, transfer your seasoning to an airtight glass jar to keep all those fragrant aromas sealed in. Stored properly, your Homemade Blackened Seasoning for Chicken, Salmon, and Veggies Recipe will stay fresh and ready for up to three months, making it perfect to have on hand for anytime meals.
Step 3: Use and Enjoy
Sprinkle generously on chicken breasts, coat salmon filets, or dust your favorite veggies before cooking to achieve that magic blackened crust and bold flavor. The mix performs beautifully whether grilling, pan-searing, or roasting, so let your imagination run wild!
How to Serve Homemade Blackened Seasoning for Chicken, Salmon, and Veggies Recipe
Garnishes
Bright garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or cilantro perfectly contrast the smoky intensity of the seasoning. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the spicy richness, elevating each bite to a new level.
Side Dishes
This seasoning shines when paired with cool, creamy sides like coleslaw, avocado salad, or a tangy yogurt dip. For heartier meals, garlic mashed potatoes or a simple rice pilaf with herbs complement the bold flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the plate! Use the blackened seasoning to spice up homemade tacos or wraps filled with grilled chicken or salmon. You can even sprinkle it over roasted street corn or mix it into whipped ricotta for a flavorful spread. It’s a playful boost for any dish that welcomes a smoky, spicy kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Homemade Blackened Seasoning for Chicken, Salmon, and Veggies Recipe stored in an airtight jar away from heat or sunlight. When stored correctly, it holds its vibrant flavor for up to three months, making it easy to grab whenever you need a quick flavor upgrade.
Freezing
Freezing this dry seasoning blend isn’t necessary given its shelf-stable nature, but if you prefer, you can freeze it in a sealed container to lock in freshness for an extended period. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before using to avoid any moisture buildup.
Reheating
Since this is a dry seasoning, reheating is all about how you cook the food it’s applied to. Whether you’re reheating blackened chicken or salmon, gently warm it up in a skillet or oven to preserve the seasoning’s crisp, charred crust and retain its bold flavors.
FAQs
Can I adjust the heat level in this Homemade Blackened Seasoning for Chicken, Salmon, and Veggies Recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily tweak the cayenne pepper amount to suit your taste—reduce it for a milder flavor or add a pinch more if you crave extra spice. The great thing is this recipe is flexible and forgiving.
Is this seasoning gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this Homemade Blackened Seasoning for Chicken, Salmon, and Veggies Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and flavorful choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano and thyme?
While fresh herbs offer a different aroma and taste, dried herbs are preferred here because they provide concentrated flavor and better shelf life in the seasoning blend. Fresh herbs can be added later when cooking if you want extra freshness.
How long does the seasoning keep its flavor?
If stored properly in an airtight container away from heat and light, this seasoning mix keeps vibrant and potent for about three months. After that, the herbs and spices start to lose their intensity but are still safe to use.
Can I use this seasoning on other proteins besides chicken and salmon?
Definitely! This Homemade Blackened Seasoning for Chicken, Salmon, and Veggies Recipe works wonderfully on shrimp, pork chops, steaks, tofu, and even roasted potatoes. It’s incredibly versatile and adds a bold, smoky kick to any protein or vegetable.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Homemade Blackened Seasoning for Chicken, Salmon, and Veggies Recipe enough—it’s a game-changer that brings smoky, spicy excitement to everyday meals with minimal effort. Once you make this blend, you’ll find yourself reaching for it constantly, turning simple ingredients into crave-worthy dishes. Give it a try and watch your cooking take on a whole new level of flavor and fun!
Print
Homemade Blackened Seasoning for Chicken, Salmon, and Veggies Recipe
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 3 minutes
- Yield: 12 teaspoons (approximately 12 servings)
- Category: Seasoning
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American Southern
Description
This homemade blackened seasoning blend is a versatile and flavorful mix perfect for adding a spicy, smoky kick to chicken, salmon, and vegetables. Made with a combination of sweet and smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and aromatic herbs and spices, it adds depth and bold flavor without any added preservatives or artificial ingredients. Easy to mix and store, this seasoning is your go-to for quick and delicious blackened dishes.
Ingredients
Blackened Seasoning
- 1½ teaspoons sweet paprika
- 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated onion powder
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, thoroughly whisk together all the spices and herbs until evenly combined, ensuring the seasoning blend is consistent throughout.
- Store: Transfer the seasoning mix into an airtight glass jar and seal it tightly. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months to maintain maximum freshness and flavor.
- Use: Sprinkle generously on chicken, salmon, or vegetables before cooking them using your preferred method such as pan-searing, grilling, or baking to achieve tasty blackened dishes.
Notes
- This seasoning blend has a medium to high heat level due to the cayenne pepper, so adjust cayenne quantity to your spice preference.
- Use within three months for best flavor and potency.
- Perfect for blackened chicken, fish, shrimp, or roasted vegetables.
- Store in an airtight container away from light and moisture to prevent clumping.
