How to Make Cajun Chicken and Potatoes: A Saucy, Cheesy Delight
If you’re in the mood for a flavorful, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare, look no further than Cajun Chicken and Potatoes! This one-pan meal is packed with bold Cajun spices, tender chicken, and creamy, cheesy potatoes that will have your taste buds dancing. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a complete recipe, including ingredients, cooking guide, and step-by-step instructions to create this delicious dish.
Ingredients
For the Cajun Chicken and Potatoes:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 lb baby potatoes (halved or quartered)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup bell peppers (sliced)
- 1 cup onion (sliced)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Potatoes: Wash and halve or quarter the baby potatoes for even cooking.
- Vegetables: If using, slice the bell peppers and onion.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
- Sauté the Potatoes: In the same skillet, add the halved baby potatoes. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown.
- Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Return Chicken: Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them among the potatoes. If using, add the sliced bell peppers and onion at this stage.
Step 5: Simmer
- Cover and Cook: Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish: Once cooked, remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Plate and Enjoy: Serve hot, spooning the creamy sauce over the chicken and potatoes. Enjoy your delicious Cajun Chicken and Potatoes!
Tips for Success
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild version.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Cajun Chicken and Potatoes is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings the taste of the South right to your kitchen. With its creamy, cheesy sauce and perfectly seasoned chicken, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s bursting with flavor! Happy cooking!