Cajun Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: Combines sweet notes from honey and brown sugar, savory depths from chicken broth and cheese, and a spicy kick from Cajun seasoning and hot sauce.
• Creamy Indulgence: The heavy cream and melted cheese create a luscious sauce that complements the spiced chicken beautifully.
• Versatile Pairing: Pairs wonderfully with rice, beans, or a fresh salad, making it adaptable to your meal preferences.
• Customizable Heat: Easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste by modifying the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Cajun seasoning
• All-purpose flour
• Olive oil
• Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (juice reserved)
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Butter
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Honey
• Hot sauce
• Brown sugar
• Mustard powder
• Dried oregano
• Cayenne pepper
• Red pepper flakes
• Cheddar Jack cheese, shredded
• Lime juice
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces. Season both sides with Cajun seasoning and lightly dredge in flour.
2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Deglaze the Pan: Pour the reserved juice from the diced tomatoes into the skillet. Use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic and butter to the skillet. Cook for about a minute until fragrant.
5. Create the Sauce Base: Sprinkle in flour and cook for an additional minute. Gradually add chicken broth, heavy cream, honey, hot sauce, brown sugar, mustard powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes, stirring continuously.
6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Incorporate Tomatoes and Cheese: Add the drained diced tomatoes. Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the shredded Cheddar Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Finish the Dish: Stir in lime juice and return the seared chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
9. Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve over rice, beans, or alongside a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different take.
• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to add more texture and flavor.
• Cheese Options: Try using Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Heat Adjustment: For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

What is Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning is a blend of spices commonly used in Louisiana cuisine, typically including paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs like oregano and thyme.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.

Is this dish very spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted to your preference. Reducing or omitting the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes will result in a milder dish.

What can I serve with Cajun Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad

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