Cajun Chicken

Name: Cajun Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups chicken broth; ¾ cups heavy cream; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 teaspoons hot sauce; 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; ½ teaspoon mustard powder; ½ teaspoon oregano; 1 pinch cayenne pepper; 1 pinch red pepper flakes; 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 ½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning; 3 tablespoons flour; 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil); 3 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 3 tablespoons flour; 10 oz. Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies; ¾ cup cheddar jack cheese (shredded); 2 teaspoons lime juice; Lime Wedges; Fresh Cilantro (roughly chopped); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Published: May 26, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This Cajun Chicken comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of Cajun seasoning and a creamy sauce delivers an irresistible flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with beans, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Customizable Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will be drawn to the delicious cream sauce and tender chicken.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Cajun Chicken recipe successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here are the key tools you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Meat mallet
Measuring cups
Silicone spatula
Cutting board
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: Provides ample space for searing chicken and making the sauce without overcrowding.
Meat mallet: Helps ensure even cooking by flattening the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness.
Silicone spatula: Perfect for scraping up fond from the skillet, enhancing the sauce’s flavor.

Ingredients

This Cajun Chicken recipe is easy to make in a skillet and serve with rice. It has the best cream sauce with a kick; you will love these Cajun flavors!

Ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups chicken broth
– ¾ cups heavy cream (can sub half and half)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 teaspoons hot sauce
– 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar (I use light)
– ½ teaspoon EACH: mustard powder, oregano
– 1 pinch EACH: cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes
– 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
– 1 ½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
– 3 tablespoons flour
– 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 3 tablespoons flour
– 10 oz. Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (juice reserved)
– ¾ cup cheddar jack cheese (shredded)
– 2 teaspoons lime juice
– Lime Wedges
– Fresh Cilantro (roughly chopped)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cajun Chicken

Step 1: Prep Work

Drain and reserve the juice from the diced tomatoes; we’ll use this liquid to deglaze the skillet after searing the chicken. You should have about ¼ cup.
Combine all sauce ingredients in a large measuring cup with a spout and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Chicken

Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create two thinner slices.
Cover with saran wrap and use the textured side of a meat mallet to pound each piece to about ½ inch thick.
Season each side generously with Cajun seasoning. Sprinkle flour on both sides and rub it in—this helps prevent sticking and thickens the sauce later on.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces in batches for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Set aside once cooked.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Add the reserved juice from the diced tomatoes into the same skillet, reducing heat to medium.
Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits—this adds extra flavor!
Add butter along with minced garlic; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in flour, continuously mixing for about 2 minutes until raw flour smell dissipates.
Gradually add your prepared sauce mixture while stirring constantly.
Bring everything to a boil; then lower heat to let it bubble gently.
Add drained tomatoes; allow it to simmer for 5–7 minutes so flavors meld together while thickening.
Reduce heat further; sprinkle cheese slowly while stirring until melted smoothly into the sauce.
Finally, add back in your seared chicken, spooning sauce over top. Let simmer uncovered for about 4 minutes before adding lime wedges into skillet—simmer another minute before removing from heat.

Serve your delicious Cajun Chicken topped with fresh cilantro alongside rice or salad! Enjoy this flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

How to Serve Cajun Chicken

Serving Cajun Chicken can elevate any meal into a flavorful feast. Its creamy sauce pairs well with various sides, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

With Rice

Steamed White Rice – A simple and classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Cilantro Lime Rice – Adds a fresh twist that complements the spicy flavors of the Cajun chicken.
Wild Rice Pilaf – Offers a nutty flavor and chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.

With Salad

Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing balance to the rich dish.
Coleslaw – A cool, crunchy side that adds texture and offsets the spice of the chicken.
Mixed Green Salad – Light and fresh, this option allows the Cajun Chicken to shine.

With Bread

Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor.
Cornbread – Its sweetness complements the spiciness of the chicken beautifully.

How to Perfect Cajun Chicken

To make your Cajun Chicken truly outstanding, keep these tips in mind.

Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and spices will enhance the flavor profile significantly.
Pound the Chicken Evenly – This ensures even cooking and tenderness throughout each piece.
Don’t Skip the Deglazing – Using reserved tomato juice helps capture all those flavorful bits from searing.
Let It Simmer – Allowing the sauce to simmer melds flavors together beautifully, creating a rich taste.
Adjust Spice Level Carefully – If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less Cajun seasoning and add more as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Cajun Chicken

Cajun Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider for your meal.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic complement the spicy flavors perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrition to your plate.
Black Beans – A hearty side that adds protein and balances out the richness of the chicken.
Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn provides a nice contrast to the savory elements of this dish.
Fried Plantains – Their sweetness offers a delightful contrast to the spiciness of Cajun Chicken.
Quinoa Salad – A nutritious grain salad that adds texture and freshness alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when cooking Cajun Chicken, but knowing them can help you achieve the best results.

Skipping the pounding step: Not flattening the chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always pound it to an even thickness for better results.
Overcrowding the skillet: If you add too much chicken at once, it won’t sear properly. Cook in batches to get that beautiful golden crust.
Neglecting the sauce: Don’t rush the sauce-making process. Allow it to simmer for enough time so the flavors meld beautifully and thicken properly.
Forgetting to taste: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed, especially with Cajun seasoning for a kick that suits your preference.
Not using fresh herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can dull the flavor. Fresh cilantro adds brightness and enhances the dish significantly.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Cajun Chicken in an airtight container.
It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cajun Chicken

To freeze, place cooled Cajun Chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Cajun Chicken

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. Cover to retain moisture.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of chicken for this Cajun Chicken recipe?

You can use thighs or tenders instead of breasts. Adjust cooking time based on the cut you choose.

What should I serve with Cajun Chicken?

Cajun Chicken pairs well with rice, beans, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it with crusty bread!

How do I adjust spice levels in my Cajun Chicken?

To make it milder, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or omit cayenne pepper. For more heat, add extra hot sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything except for the final reheating step and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

What is the best way to store leftover Cajun Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Cajun Chicken recipe is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. The creamy sauce brings warmth and richness that you’ll love! Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences. Give this dish a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!