Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is a vibrant, flavorful dish that draws inspiration from the rich culinary traditions of Louisiana. This recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken with colorful bell peppers and aromatic garlic, creating a meal that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with zesty flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish can be complemented with a side of rice or quinoa, making it a versatile choice for any dining experience.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is an excellent way to incorporate bold flavors and healthy ingredients into your meal rotation. The Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a kick that can be adjusted to your liking, while the bell peppers and onions add a sweet and crunchy texture. Additionally, it’s a quick and simple recipe that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights. Plus, using fresh vegetables and lean protein ensures that you’re nourishing your body while enjoying a delicious meal.
How to Make Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Directions
- In a small bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mix over the chicken breasts.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through and golden. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the sliced bell peppers and onion for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Slice the chicken into thin strips and return it to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss and cook for 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired, and serve hot—over rice, quinoa, or with your preferred side.
How to Serve Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers can be served over a bed of rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. Alternatively, it can be served with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can also complement this dish beautifully, adding more nutrients and color to your plate.
How to Store Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
To store any leftovers, allow the Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you may freeze the dish in an airtight container, where it will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Tips to Make Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
- Adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the amount of Cajun seasoning used; feel free to start with a smaller amount and add more to suit your taste.
- To enhance the dish’s flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
- For added richness, you can incorporate heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking for a luscious sauce.
Variation
For a lower-carb option, substitute the rice or quinoa with cauliflower rice. You can also experiment with different proteins by swapping chicken for shrimp or turkey. Adding other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms can also enhance the dish and provide more variety.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cajun Chicken and sauté the vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately and reheat before serving for a quick meal.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is gluten-free as long as the Cajun seasoning used does not contain any gluten-based fillers.
3. Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with different proteins, such as shrimp or firm tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 pieces bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- to taste Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mix over the chicken breasts.
Cooking
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through and golden. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the sliced bell peppers and onion for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Slice the chicken into thin strips and return it to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss and cook for 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired, and serve hot over rice, quinoa, or with your preferred side.
