Spicy Cajun Chicken With Sweet Peppers Recipe

The Zesty Cajun Chicken With Sweet Peppers Recipe You’ll Love

Crafting a delicious Cajun chicken with sweet peppers brings vibrant flavors dancing across your plate.

Spices swirl with colorful bell peppers, creating a meal that feels like a celebration.

Robust seasonings mingle perfectly, promising an exciting culinary adventure.

Fresh ingredients combine to deliver a punch of southern-style comfort.

Layers of complexity emerge from simple, carefully selected components.

Bright peppers and tender chicken create a harmony that will make your taste buds sing.

You can recreate this restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen with confidence.

Serving Ideas to Complete Your Plate

  • Spicy Skillet Fiesta: Serve over fluffy white rice or brown rice for a hearty, filling meal that soaks up all the delicious Cajun flavors.
  • Wrap It Up: Create zesty chicken wraps by tucking the Cajun chicken and peppers into warm tortillas with a dollop of cool sour cream or creamy ranch dressing.
  • Low-Carb Delight: Transform this dish into a light meal by serving over cauliflower rice or a bed of crisp mixed greens for a protein-packed, low-carbohydrate option.
  • Party Platter Presentation: Arrange the Cajun chicken and peppers on a large platter with toothpicks for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that's perfect for gatherings and game days.

Storage Tips to Keep It Fresh and Delicious

  • Refrigerate leftover Cajun chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days.
  • Store separately from garnishes like fresh parsley to maintain optimal texture and prevent wilting.
  • Transfer chicken and peppers to a shallow, sealed container to help cool quickly and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Minimize moisture by placing a paper towel inside the container to absorb excess liquid and keep the chicken from becoming soggy.

FAQs

  • What is Cajun seasoning made of?

Cajun seasoning typically includes paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, oregano, cayenne pepper, and thyme, creating a spicy and robust flavor profile.

  • Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Yes, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning or use a mild Cajun blend to lower the heat level while maintaining the signature flavor.

  • What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs are ideal, as they cook quickly and absorb the Cajun seasoning well.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your Cajun seasoning blend to ensure it doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients.

Why This Cajun Chicken with Sweet Peppers Is a Flavor Explosion

  • Spice Up Your Weeknight Dinner: Cajun chicken delivers a bold, zesty flavor that transforms an ordinary meal into an exciting culinary adventure.
  • Quick and Simple Cooking: Prepare this dish in less than 20 minutes with minimal ingredients and basic cooking skills, perfect for busy home cooks.
  • Nutrient-Packed One-Pan Meal: Combines lean protein from chicken with colorful bell peppers, creating a balanced and nutritious dinner that satisfies hunger and taste buds.
  • Customizable Flavor Profile: Easily adjust Cajun seasoning intensity to suit personal preference, making it adaptable for mild to spice-loving family members.

Ingredients That Bring Spice and Sweetness Together

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Slices: Lean protein that absorbs the bold Cajun seasoning and creates the primary flavor profile of the dish.
Seasoning and Spices:
  • Cajun Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Provide a spicy, robust flavor that enhances the chicken and creates a signature Cajun taste.
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, fresh garnish that brings color and a light herbal note to the finished dish.
Cooking Base and Vegetables:
  • Olive Oil: Provides a healthy cooking fat that helps brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables.
  • Bell Peppers, Onion: Colorful vegetables that add sweetness, texture, and nutritional value to the dish.
  • Garlic: Introduces a pungent, aromatic flavor that complements the Cajun seasoning and adds depth to the overall taste.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Cajun Chicken

Step 1: Spice Up the Chicken

Grab your chicken slices and sprinkle them generously with Cajun seasoning. Massage the spices into the meat, ensuring every piece gets a bold, zesty coating that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Step 2: Fire Up the Skillet

Place a large skillet on the stove and pour in olive oil. Crank the heat to medium-high and let the oil shimmer with anticipation.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Carefully lay the seasoned chicken into the hot skillet. Listen for that satisfying sizzle!

Cook the chicken, flipping occasionally, until it develops a gorgeous golden-brown crust and cooks completely through. Transfer the chicken to a waiting plate.

Step 4: Veggie Magic

In the same skillet (hello, flavor!), add a touch more oil if needed. Toss in:
  • Bell peppers (mix of colors for visual excitement)
  • Onions

Sauté these veggies until they’re crisp-tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Garlic Burst

Sprinkle minced garlic into the skillet. Stir quickly for about 30 seconds, letting the garlic release its aromatic magic without burning.

Step 6: Reunite and Reheat

Slide the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the peppers and onions. Gently stir everything together, allowing the flavors to mingle and the chicken to warm through.

Step 7: Final Flavor Touches

Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a pop of freshness, scatter some chopped parsley on top if you’re feeling fancy.

Serve hot and enjoy your Cajun chicken masterpiece!

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken and Peppers

  • Select chicken breasts with similar thickness to ensure even cooking and prevent dry or undercooked sections.
  • Replace regular Cajun seasoning with low-sodium versions for heart-healthy diets or reduce salt intake.
  • Add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to increase nutritional value and create more volume in the dish.
  • Use smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to adjust spice levels according to personal heat tolerance or family preferences.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3-4 days for maximum freshness and food safety.

Flavor Twists to Try for a New Experience

  • Low-Sodium Spice Delight: Replace Cajun seasoning with homemade herbs like dried thyme, oregano, and paprika for a healthier, lower-sodium version.
  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, using the same Cajun seasoning and cooking method for a plant-based alternative.
  • Mediterranean-Style Remix: Use Greek yogurt marinade instead of dry seasoning, add kalamata olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Friendly Option: Ensure Cajun seasoning is gluten-free, and serve over cauliflower rice or quinoa for a celiac-friendly meal.
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Spicy Cajun Chicken With Sweet Peppers Recipe

Spicy Cajun Chicken With Sweet Peppers Recipe


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4.6 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy Cajun chicken with sweet peppers sings with bold Louisiana flavors. Spicy seasonings and colorful bell peppers create a hearty meal you’ll savor from first bite to last.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced

Vegetables:

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 small red onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Oil:

  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Generously coat chicken slices with Cajun seasoning, ensuring each piece is thoroughly seasoned.
  2. Preheat a large skillet to medium-high heat and drizzle with olive oil.
  3. Carefully place seasoned chicken into the hot skillet, cooking for 6-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through, turning occasionally to ensure even browning.
  4. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate, keeping warm while preparing vegetables.
  5. In the same skillet, add additional oil if needed and introduce bell peppers and onions, sautéing for 4-5 minutes until they reach a vibrant, tender-crisp texture.
  6. Introduce minced garlic to the vegetable mixture, stirring quickly for 30-45 seconds to release aromatic flavors without burning.
  7. Gently reintegrate the cooked chicken into the skillet, tossing with vegetables to distribute heat and flavors evenly.
  8. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
  9. Optional: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a bright, fresh garnish before serving.

Notes

  • Adjust Cajun seasoning intensity by controlling the amount used, ensuring a personalized spice level that suits your taste preferences.
  • Select chicken breasts or thighs with consistent thickness to guarantee even cooking and prevent dry or undercooked sections.
  • Use a cast-iron skillet for superior heat distribution and achieving a perfect golden-brown exterior on the chicken.
  • Make the dish gluten-free by verifying that your Cajun seasoning blend does not contain wheat-based additives or cross-contamination.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7.2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 2.5 g
  • Protein: 26 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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