Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
In a shallow dish, whisk together paprika, cumin, cayenne, Italian seasoning, dried thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly combined.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Brush or rub both sides of each breast with 2 tablespoons of the canola oil so they are lightly coated.
Press each oiled chicken breast into the seasoning mixture, coating both sides and pressing with your fingers so the spice rub adheres.
Heat a large cast-iron or ovenproof skillet over high heat until very hot, about 5 minutes. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon canola oil and swirl to coat the pan.
Add the chicken breasts to the hot skillet and sear 30 seconds per side until well blackened on the exterior.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake 12–15 minutes more, until the chicken is no longer pink and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Remove the skillet from the oven, transfer the chicken to a platter, tent with foil, and let rest 5 minutes before slicing and serving.