Blackened Chicken Recipe

Tofu: Extra firm tofu is used as a substitute for chicken, providing a similar texture when pressed and cooked.

Olive oil: Helps to coat the tofu and allows the spices to adhere better.

Paprika: Adds a smoky flavor and vibrant color to the dish.

Garlic powder: Provides a rich, savory taste.

Onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a hint of sweetness.

Dried thyme: Adds an earthy, slightly minty flavor.

Dried oregano: Contributes a robust, aromatic taste.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the spice mix.

Salt: Enhances all the other flavors.

Cayenne pepper: Optional, for those who prefer an extra kick of heat.

When preparing the tofu, ensure it is well-pressed to remove excess moisture. This helps the spices adhere better and allows the tofu to achieve a crispier texture when cooked. Use a tofu press or place the tofu between paper towels and weigh it down with a heavy object for at least 15 minutes.

• Blackened Chicken - Substitute with pressed and sliced extra firm tofu: Tofu has a firm texture that can mimic the chewiness of chicken when pressed and cooked properly.

• Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for high-heat cooking like blackening.

• Paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deeper, smoky flavor that enhances the blackened seasoning.

• Garlic powder - Substitute with granulated garlic: Granulated garlic provides a similar flavor but with a slightly coarser texture, which can add a bit more crunch to the seasoning.

• Onion powder - Substitute with granulated onion: Granulated onion offers a similar flavor profile with a bit more texture, enhancing the overall seasoning mix.

• Dried thyme - Substitute with dried rosemary: Dried rosemary has a robust, earthy flavor that complements the other spices in the blackened seasoning.

• Dried oregano - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil provides a slightly sweeter and more aromatic flavor that pairs well with the other herbs and spices.

• Black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder, slightly different heat profile that can add a unique twist to the seasoning.

• Salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a more complex flavor and can enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Cayenne pepper - Substitute with chipotle powder: Chipotle powder adds a smoky heat that complements the blackened seasoning while providing a different flavor dimension.

• Allow the tofu slices to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the tofu soggy.
• Place the cooled tofu slices in an airtight container. If stacking, separate each layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The blackened tofu will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.
• For freezing, wrap each tofu slice individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain the texture and flavor.
• Place the wrapped tofu slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat the blackened tofu in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the tofu slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the tofu with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil to the skillet.
  3. Place the tofu slices in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the tofu slices on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent drying out.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to ensure even heating.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the tofu slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Set up a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water.
  2. Place the tofu slices in the steamer basket.
  3. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes or until heated through.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine all the spices together for the spice mix.

• Knife: Essential for slicing the block of tofu into even pieces.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing the tofu.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring out the spices and olive oil.

• Skillet: Use this to cook the tofu slices over medium-high heat until they are blackened.

• Spatula: Helpful for flipping the tofu slices to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.

• Plate: Place the cooked tofu slices on this once they are done cooking.

• Paper towels: Useful for pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking.

Press the tofu ahead: Press the tofu in advance to remove excess water, making it ready to absorb the spices quickly.

Pre-mix spices: Combine all spices in a jar ahead of time to save minutes when preparing the recipe.

Use a non-stick skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures even cooking and easier cleanup, saving you time.

Batch cook: Cook multiple tofu slices at once to reduce overall cooking time.