Cajun Blackened Chicken Breast

Serves 4

          Cajun cooking has found its way to other parts of the country and has become very popular. In this recipe the chicken breasts are highly seasoned and cooked quickly in a cast-iron skillet over high heat. (Turn on the fan and open the door.) Accompany with Orzo and Parmesan Cheese, hard rolls, and Garden Salad with a dressing of your choice.

4 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted

6 boned and skinned chicken breast halves, flattened

3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (recipe follows), or purchased Cajun seasoning

Place butter in a flat bowl. Dip chicken in butter and place on a plate. Sprinkle both sides with seasoning.

          Preheat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until drops of water sizzle, about 5 minutes. Place chicken in skillet.   Cook chicken until thoroughly browned on one side, about 4 minutes. Drizzle on remaining butter, turn with tongs and cook about 5 minutes longer. If skillet    will not hold all chicken breasts at one time, cook in batches and transfer to a warm oven.

Cajun Seasoning

Makes about 2 1/2 tablespoons

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried basil, crumbled

1 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled

1 teaspoon dried oregano, crumbled

1 tablespoon paprika

1 teaspoon celery salt

1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

1/2 teaspoon white pepper

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

In a cup or small bowl combine all ingredients. Store any leftover seasoning in a spice jar with lid.