introduction
This Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is a quick, spicy meal you can make any night. It uses simple spices and bright peppers. For a different twist on Cajun chicken, see this Cajun chicken sloppy joes recipe for more ideas.
why make this recipe
You make this recipe because it is fast, full of flavor, and uses common ingredients. It cooks in one skillet and cleans up fast. The peppers add color and a fresh bite.
how to make Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
You season the chicken, sear it, then cook the peppers and onions in the same pan. Slice the cooked chicken and toss it back with the vegetables so the spices coat everything. For another simple method, check this easy Cajun chicken idea.
Ingredients :
For the Cajun Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Vegetables:
- 2 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Directions :
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the spice mix.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a nice golden-brown sear. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Prepare the Vegetables:
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions, and sauté over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine and Serve:
4. Combine Chicken and Veggies: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips and return them to the skillet with the peppers and onions. Toss everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the flavors meld.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve the dish hot.
how to serve Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
Serve the chicken over white rice, brown rice, or pasta. You can also put it in warm tortillas for tacos or serve it on toasted bread for a sandwich. For serving ideas and buns or bread ideas, see this serve with bread or rice guide.
how to store Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
Cool the dish to room temperature before storing. Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning so the spice mix sticks.
- Use a hot pan to get a good sear on the chicken.
- Slice peppers and onions evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Taste and adjust salt after cooking if needed.
- Add a squeeze of lemon or lime for bright flavor before serving.
variation (if any)
- Add sliced Andouille sausage for more smoky flavor.
- Use shrimp instead of chicken for a faster cook time.
- Make it spicier with extra cayenne or hot sauce.
- Add mushrooms or zucchini for more vegetables.
- Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes. Use boneless skinless thighs and cook until they reach safe temperature. They may need a little more time.
Q: Is Cajun seasoning very spicy?
A: It can be. Start with one tablespoon and add more if you want more heat. You can use mild paprika to reduce heat.
Q: Can I make this ahead and reheat?
A: Yes. Store in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Q: Can I cook this in the oven?
A: You can sear the chicken on the stove, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until done. Roast peppers separately if needed.
Q: What sides go well with this dish?
A: Rice, pasta, salad, roasted potatoes, or crusty bread work well.
Conclusion
For a similar one-pan idea and more photos, see this full Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers – Julia’s Album recipe. If you want another simple method and step-by-step guide, try this One Pan Cajun Chicken and Peppers – Cooks Well With Others.
Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
Ingredients
For the Cajun Chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the chicken
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Store-bought or homemade
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Vegetables
- 2 pieces bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing
For Garnish
- to taste Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped Optional
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix together the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the spice mix.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a nice golden-brown sear. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Prepare the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions, and sauté over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine and Serve
- Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips and return them to the skillet with the peppers and onions. Toss everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the flavors meld.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve the dish hot.
