Name: Spicy Cajun Chicken
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 24 ounces chicken breasts (about 2 large breasts); 2 tablespoons flour; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 0.5 teaspoon pepper; 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 0.5 medium red onion (chopped); 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved); 2 bell peppers bell peppers (any color combo, chopped into 1 inch pieces); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1.5 cups low sodium chicken broth; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 cup heavy cream (or evaporated milk + 1 tsp cornstarch); 1 tablespoon lime juice; 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

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The first time I made Spicy Cajun Chicken, I was in a bit of a culinary rut. It was one of those weeknights where I wanted something exciting but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I had a collection of spices that I had been dying to use, and the thought of a rich, creamy sauce enveloping perfectly cooked chicken was enough to get my creative juices flowing. As the aroma of sautéed onions and bell peppers wafted through the house, I was reminded of the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine. This dish quickly became a family favorite, with its bold spices and luscious sauce. It’s become a staple whenever I want to impress my friends or just enjoy a cozy night in.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
12 mins

Cook Time:
18 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
480 kcal

Protein:
34 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
30 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Grater, Wooden Spoon, Saucepan, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Skillet

The Beauty of This Spicy Cajun Chicken

Exciting Flavor Profile

What I love most about Spicy Cajun Chicken is how it packs a punch. The combination of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne creates a flavor explosion that dances on your palate.

Versatile Ingredients

This recipe is all about using ingredients you might already have on hand. Chicken breasts are versatile and can be swapped out for other proteins if desired, while the spices truly shine.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a quiet dinner at home or a gathering with friends, Spicy Cajun Chicken fits the bill. Its hearty nature makes it suitable for any season, and it’s guaranteed to impress your guests.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

Let’s not forget the ease of preparation! In less than an hour, you can have an impressive meal on the table. It’s a one-skillet dish, making cleanup a breeze.

Rich and Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is the star here. Made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, it envelops the chicken and vegetables, creating a comforting hug for your taste buds.

What You’ll Need for Spicy Cajun Chicken

For Spicy Cajun Chicken, the key ingredients come together to create a delightful balance of heat, creaminess, and flavor. The use of seasonings like smoked paprika and cayenne pepper gives the dish its signature kick, while heavy cream makes the sauce rich and luxurious. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions add texture and color, making this dish not only tasty but visually appealing too.

2 large chicken breasts (about 24 ounces) – The foundation of this dish, juicy and tender.
2 tablespoons flour – Helps to thicken the sauce and gives a nice crust to the chicken.
2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and flavor.
2 tablespoons olive oil – A healthy fat for cooking the chicken.
2 teaspoons EACH smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder – Essential spices for that Cajun flavor.
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
1 teaspoon EACH dried oregano, dried thyme – Adds depth to the seasoning blend.
1/2 teaspoon pepper – For a little extra kick.
1/4-1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper – Adjust according to your spice preference.
1/2 medium red onion, chopped – Provides sweetness and texture.
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved – Adds freshness and a pop of sweetness.
2 bell peppers (any color combo), chopped into 1 inch pieces – Great for color and crunch.
4 garlic cloves, minced – Essential for flavor.
1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth – Forms the base of the sauce.
1 tablespoon cornstarch – For thickening the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream (or evaporated milk + 1 teaspoon cornstarch) – Makes the sauce rich and creamy.
1 tablespoon lime juice – Adds a refreshing tang.
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for creaminess and flavor.

Preparation Steps for Spicy Cajun Chicken

Making Spicy Cajun Chicken is a straightforward process that yields incredible flavor. Gather your ingredients and follow these simple steps. You’ll be savoring this dish in no time!

Start by mixing the Cajun seasonings in a shallow dish. This includes smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Reserve about a tablespoon of this mix for later use in the sauce. Whisk in the flour until well combined; this will help create a lovely coating on the chicken.
Prepare the chicken breasts by slicing them in half horizontally to create four fillets. Cover them with plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness using a meat mallet or the side of a can. This ensures even cooking.
Once pounded, pat the chicken dry to help the seasoning stick better. Dredge each breast in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess before transferring them to a dry surface.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter with the olive oil. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken. Cook the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate, leaving any remaining oil in the skillet.
Without wiping out the skillet, add a bit more oil if needed to have about a tablespoon left in the pan. Heat it over medium-high heat and add the chopped onions. Cook for about three minutes until they start to become translucent.
Next, add in the halved cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook these for about two minutes, stirring frequently. This will release their flavors and create a wonderful aroma.
Pour in half of the chicken broth to help deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits at the bottom. In a separate bowl, whisk the remaining broth with cornstarch until smooth, and then add this to the skillet along with the heavy cream.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally until it thickens. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, followed by the lime juice. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra cayenne if desired.
Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, allowing it to heat through for about a minute. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking the Chicken: Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the chicken; this helps achieve a nice sear.
Adjusting Spice Levels: You can easily control the heat by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper used.
Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce isn’t thickening, cook it for a bit longer, or add a little more cornstarch mixed with water.
Flavor Development: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps amalgamate all the flavors, making it richer.

Recipe Variations about Spicy Cajun Chicken

If you want to switch things up with Spicy Cajun Chicken, there are plenty of variations you can try. Whether you want to tweak the ingredients or the preparation method, here are some ideas:

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken for firm tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
Different Proteins: Swap out chicken for shrimp or fish for a seafood twist.
Spice Level: To make it milder, reduce the cayenne pepper or add a splash of cream to cool it down.
Cajun Inspired: For a more authentic Cajun flavor, add in some sliced sausages to the skillet with the vegetables.
Serving Styles: Serve over rice or with mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage: Cajun chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for three to five days.
Microwave Reheating: Thinly slice or chop up chicken to reheat more evenly; heat for 1 minute in the microwave.
Stovetop Reheating: Slice or chop up chicken and heat in a skillet over medium heat.

What to Serve Alongside Spicy Cajun Chicken

Rice: Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Salad: A light salad with citrus dressing pairs perfectly, balancing the richness of the dish.
Bread: Offer crusty bread or garlic bread to mop up every bit of that creamy sauce.
Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables can complement the dish nicely.
Occasions: This dish is great for casual family dinners or festive gatherings.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed for a quick meal throughout the week.
Seasonal Pairings: In summer, serve with fresh corn on the cob; in winter, a warm side of mashed potatoes is delightful.

FAQ

You can serve Spicy Cajun Chicken with a variety of sides. Fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes are excellent choices, as they soak up the rich sauce beautifully. Fresh salads with citrus dressing will add brightness to the meal. For a more substantial dish, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or crusty bread for dipping. Each option complements the flavors of the chicken perfectly!

Absolutely! You can prepare Spicy Cajun Chicken ahead of time. Cook the dish as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three to five days. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it a convenient option for meal prepping or entertaining guests.

The spice level of Spicy Cajun Chicken can be adjusted based on your preference. The recipe includes cayenne pepper, which provides a nice kick without being overwhelming. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can reduce the amount of cayenne or omit it entirely. Conversely, for those who love spice, feel free to add more! The balance of flavors ensures that it’s savory and satisfying, regardless of the spice level.

Yes, you can freeze leftovers of Spicy Cajun Chicken. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it slowly on the stove. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors even on busy nights!

Conclusion

In summary, Spicy Cajun Chicken is a captivating dish that combines vibrant flavors with a creamy texture, making it a sure hit for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe at home. It’s not just about feeding your tummy; it’s about bringing warmth and excitement to your dinner table. Enjoy every bite and share it with those you love!