Creamy Cajun Chicken

There’s just something about Creamy Cajun Chicken that transports me right to the heart of Louisiana. I remember the first time I tried this dish at a small, bustling restaurant in New Orleans. The air was thick with the aroma of spices, and the moment I took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The rich creaminess, paired with the bold Cajun flavors, created a harmony that danced on my taste buds. Now, I find myself recreating this dish in my own kitchen, especially on those busy weeknights when I crave comfort food. It’s become a tradition in my home, bringing family and friends together around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter over a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Creamy Cajun Chicken

The ingredients for Creamy Cajun Chicken harmonize beautifully, creating a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. The key players in this recipe are the tender chicken, flavorful Cajun seasoning, and the luscious heavy whipping cream. Together, they create a delightful balance of spices and creaminess that is sure to satisfy any palate.

• 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken, cut in half lengthwise: This is the main protein that absorbs all the spices beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided: This blend of spices gives the dish its signature kick, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that complements the Cajun spices.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds richness and helps to brown the chicken perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Enhances the creaminess and adds flavor during cooking.
• ½ cup chopped onion: Provides a sweet base flavor that balances the spices.
• 3 teaspoons minced garlic, about 3 cloves: Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the creamy sauce, making it luxurious.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: This is what makes the dish creamy and decadent.
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty richness that complements the creaminess.
• red pepper flakes for garnish: A little sprinkle adds color and a touch of heat.
• salt to taste, if needed: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Step by Step Instructions for Creamy Cajun Chicken

Preparing Creamy Cajun Chicken can be a delightful experience, especially when you see how quickly it comes together. I find that following each step closely helps me achieve the best results. Let’s dive into the process!

1. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning with 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Rub this mixture generously over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated with flavor.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the skillet hot enough that the fat shimmers, indicating it’s ready for the chicken.
3. Add the seasoned chicken to the pan, arranging it so that it’s not overcrowded. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side, or until the pieces are golden brown but not fully cooked. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear.
4. Carefully remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. It’s important to let the chicken rest so it retains its juices.
5. In the same skillet, add ½ cup of chopped onion and 3 teaspoons of minced garlic. Sauté these until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. The aromas will start filling your kitchen!
6. Next, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the onion and garlic mixture to create a roux. This will help to thicken the sauce.
7. Slowly pour in 1 cup of chicken broth while stirring continuously. This will help to deglaze the pan, lifting all those delicious brown bits from the bottom. Take your time with this step.
8. Then, add 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese along with the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir everything together and reduce the heat to medium-low.
9. Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to simmer in the sauce for another 5 to 8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. You can tell it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
10. Finally, season with salt to taste if needed. Garnish with fresh parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving. This final touch adds a pop of color and spice!

Recipe Variations about Creamy Cajun Chicken

There are so many ways to enjoy Creamy Cajun Chicken and tailor it to your taste. Here are some variations to consider that can enhance your cooking experience:

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to add color and nutrition.
• Different Proteins: If you want to switch things up, try using shrimp or even a plant-based protein. Both options will absorb the flavors beautifully.
• Spice Levels: Modify the heat by adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning or adding a few dashes of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it Lighter: Use low-fat cream or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the sauce, but keep in mind it may alter the richness.
• Freezing: You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Perfect Matches for Creamy Cajun Chicken

Serving Creamy Cajun Chicken is a delightful opportunity to get creative with your meal presentation. There are numerous options to make this dish shine:

• Over Rice: Serving it over fluffy white or brown rice allows the creamy sauce to soak in, creating a satisfying combination.
• Pasta Pairing: Toss the chicken and sauce with cooked pasta for a complete meal that’s both comforting and filling.
• Salad Side: A fresh green salad can balance the richness of the dish, offering a refreshing contrast.
• Perfect for Dinner Parties: This dish is impressive enough for special occasions. Serve it with a glass of iced tea or lemonade to elevate your gathering.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Consider seasonal vegetables for garnish or alongside the chicken, such as asparagus in spring or roasted squash in the fall.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch in advance for busy weeknights. It reheats beautifully and retains its flavor.

FAQ

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken is a dish that perfectly combines rich flavors and comforting textures, making it an ideal choice for any dinner table. I encourage you to try this recipe at your next gathering or family dinner. It’s a wonderful way to bring loved ones together over a meal that is both delicious and satisfying. Enjoy the journey of creating this delightful dish!

Creamy Cajun Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Cajun Chicken is a rich and creamy dish that's perfect for easy weeknight dinners. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Why not whip it up tonight?

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken cut in half lengthwise
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning divided
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 3 teaspoons minced garlic about 3 cloves
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• red pepper flakes for garnish
• salt to taste, if needed

Equipment

• Skillet
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Rub this mixture generously over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated with flavor.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the skillet hot enough that the fat shimmers, indicating it’s ready for the chicken.
3. Add the seasoned chicken to the pan, arranging it so that it's not overcrowded. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side, or until the pieces are golden brown but not fully cooked. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear.
4. Carefully remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. It’s important to let the chicken rest so it retains its juices.
5. In the same skillet, add ½ cup of chopped onion and 3 teaspoons of minced garlic. Sauté these until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. The aromas will start filling your kitchen!
6. Next, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the onion and garlic mixture to create a roux. This will help to thicken the sauce.
7. Slowly pour in 1 cup of chicken broth while stirring continuously. This will help to deglaze the pan, lifting all those delicious brown bits from the bottom. Take your time with this step.
8. Then, add 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese along with the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir everything together and reduce the heat to medium-low.
9. Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to simmer in the sauce for another 5 to 8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. You can tell it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
10. Finally, season with salt to taste if needed. Garnish with fresh parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving. This final touch adds a pop of color and spice!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or pasta, allowing the creamy sauce to soak in and complement each bite.
• Cooking the Chicken: Make sure not to overcook the chicken during the initial searing. It should be golden brown but still slightly undercooked as it will finish cooking in the sauce.
• Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce. The cream will naturally thicken as it cooks.
• Adjusting Heat: If you want the dish spicier, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning or include additional red pepper flakes.

Previous PostCrispy Chicken Wraps

Next Post Crispy Chicken Sandwich

Meet Juliet Sterling

Creating rich, complex flavors is my obsession, though I am just as passionate about capturing them through the lens. I develop recipes that taste like they simmered all day but are actually achievable for any home cook. I cooked and styled this dish to ensure the flavors are balanced and the presentation inspires you.