Cajun Chicken with Sweet Peppers

Cajun Chicken with Sweet Peppers is a bold and colorful one-skillet meal packed with smoky spice and vibrant veggies. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned with Cajun spices and seared to perfection, then tossed with sautéed sweet bell peppers and onions. It’s a simple, protein-rich dish that delivers big flavor with minimal fuss—perfect for weeknight dinners or a quick meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal – everything cooks in a single skillet for easy cleanup.
• Packed with flavor – Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of kick.
• Colorful and nutritious – sweet peppers provide vitamins and natural sweetness.
• Quick and easy – ready in about 30 minutes.
• Versatile – serve it with rice, quinoa, or in wraps.

ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into cutlets)
• Olive oil
• Cajun seasoning
• Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers, sliced
• Red onion, sliced
• Garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional: shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

directions

1. Season the chicken: Pat chicken dry and season both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken cutlets 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté vegetables: Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet. Sauté sliced bell peppers and red onion for about 5–7 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Add garlic and cook for 1–2 more minutes.
4. Combine and finish: Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the veggies. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese if using. Cover and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot over rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Creamy version: Add a splash of cream or dollop of cream cheese to create a creamy Cajun sauce.
• Add grains: Serve over couscous, brown rice, or farro for a heartier meal.
• Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Try other proteins: Use shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
• Add greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale just before serving.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What kind of Cajun seasoning should I use?

Use store-bought or make your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the cheese and the rest of the recipe is naturally dairy-free.

Do I need to use all three colors of bell peppers?

No, use whatever bell peppers you have on hand—they all bring a slight sweetness and color.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Absolutely—grilled Cajun chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor. Just cook the veggies separately.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat depending on the Cajun seasoning. You can adjust it to your taste.

What can I serve with Cajun Chicken?

Rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or even a simple green salad work great.

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Avoid overcooking—use a thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165°F.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it great for meal prep.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely—zucchini, mushrooms, or snap peas would make great additions.

Conclusion

Cajun Chicken with Sweet Peppers is a fiery, flavorful, and colorful dish that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying. Whether you’re serving it up for dinner or packing it up for lunch, this dish brings a delicious taste of the South with every bite. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect answer to your next mealtime craving.

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