Ingredients for Cajun Chicken with Sweet Bell Peppers

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into 1-inch pieces: The lean protein base for this flavorful Cajun chicken. Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and quick preparation.
• 1 large red bell pepper, cored and sliced: Adds vibrant color and a delightful sweetness that balances the zesty Cajun spices. Essential for texture and flavor.
• 1 large green bell pepper, cored and sliced: Provides a slightly more pungent, earthy note compared to red peppers. A classic component of the “holy trinity” in Cajun cooking.
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped: The aromatic foundation for the entire dish. Sautéing it slowly brings out its natural sweetness, building deep flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: The cooking fat of choice, perfect for searing the chicken and sautéing vegetables. A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances overall taste.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Indispensable for a robust flavor profile. Freshly minced garlic provides an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Creates a flavorful sauce, deglazing the pan and adding moisture. Use low-sodium to control the overall saltiness of your dish.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Adds a concentrated, umami-rich tomato depth to the sauce. Sauté it briefly to deepen its flavor before adding liquids.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A secret weapon for adding a complex layer of savory, umami flavor. Just a splash makes a significant difference.
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: The star of this Sizzling Flavorful Cajun Chicken recipe, delivering authentic zesty heat. Adjust quantity to your preferred spice level.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Contributes a beautiful color and a smoky depth that complements the Cajun spices perfectly. Don’t confuse it with sweet paprika.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A versatile herb that adds an earthy, slightly peppery note, enhancing the overall savory profile. Essential for robust flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Provides an extra kick of heat, allowing you to customize the spice level. Start with a pinch and add more if you dare!
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste): Enhances all the other flavors, bringing them into harmony. Adjust carefully, especially if your Cajun seasoning is salty.
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste): Adds a fresh, sharp counterpoint to the other spices. Grinding fresh truly makes a difference.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: A bright, herbaceous finish that adds freshness and a pop of color. Stir in at the very end for best results.

How to Make Cajun Chicken with Sweet Bell Peppers

Prep Chicken & Veggies:

Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces, then slice bell peppers and chop the onion. Toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. This ensures even flavor distribution for your Cajun Chicken with Sweet Bell Peppers.

Sear Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until nicely browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan for best searing results.

Sauté Aromatics:

Remove the seared chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the bell peppers and onion to the same skillet. Cook until softened, about 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Simmer Sauce:

Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne (if using) with the vegetables. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Finish Cooking:

Return the seared chicken to the skillet, coating it thoroughly in the flavorful sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Season & Garnish:

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed for your delicious Cajun Chicken with Sweet Bell Peppers. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and the fresh chopped parsley just before serving. This brightens the flavors beautifully.

Serve Warm:

Ladle your delightful Cajun Chicken with Sweet Bell Peppers over fluffy rice, quinoa, or with a side of crusty bread. Enjoy this zesty meal immediately for the best experience!

How to Store Cajun Chicken with Sweet Bell Peppers

Once cooled, store leftover Cajun Chicken with Sweet Bell Peppers in an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly for optimal freshness for up to 3-4 days. Don’t leave it out too long, otherwise, it can spoil quickly – a mistake I’ve made! Discard if it smells off or looks slimy.

For meal prep, chop vegetables a day or two ahead and store them in the refrigerator to speed up cooking. When reheating, gently warm the chicken on the stovetop or in the microwave. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.

What to Serve with Cajun Chicken with Sweet Bell Peppers

This vibrant Cajun Chicken with Sweet Bell Peppers is perfect served over fluffy white rice or quinoa, allowing it to soak up all that zesty sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation, making it ideal for any occasion. Always enjoy this dish warm, and pair it with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for a complete, delightful meal.

My absolute favorite way to serve it is piled high over a bed of warm, buttery rice. The rice perfectly absorbs every bit of the flavorful sauce, and a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a delightful freshness that brightens each bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Sizzling Flavorful Cajun Chicken?

Yes, chicken thighs are excellent! They add richness and are more forgiving if slightly overcooked than breasts. Adjust simmering time slightly, as thighs might need a few minutes longer to become tender. They’ll make your Cajun Chicken delicious.

→ How do I prevent dry chicken in my Sizzling Flavorful Cajun Chicken with Sweet Bell Peppers?

To prevent dry chicken, don’t overcook it during searing or simmering. Cook until just tender, around 10-15 minutes in the sauce. Trust me, pulling it off heat promptly ensures juicy, flavorful results every time. Avoid rubbery chicken!

→ Can I make this Flavorful Cajun Chicken with Sweet Bell Peppers recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free if your Cajun seasoning and chicken broth are certified GF. Always check labels, as some brands contain hidden gluten. It’s an easy swap for a delicious, safe meal for everyone to enjoy.

→ How do I make Sizzling Flavorful Cajun Chicken ahead or freeze leftovers?

You can prep veggies ahead and store them. For freezing, cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to maintain the delicious texture.

→ Can I double or halve this Flavorful Cajun Chicken with Sweet Bell Peppers recipe?

Yes, you can! When doubling, remember to sear chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, otherwise it won’t brown properly. Halving is straightforward; just adjust cooking times slightly. Maintain ingredient ratios for the best flavor balance.