When it comes to adding flavor to your meals, few cuisines can rival the bold and spicy flavors of Cajun cooking. And when you combine those flavors with the richness of chicken, you get a match made in culinary heaven. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering spicy Cajun chicken recipes that are sure to spice up your dinner routine.
From classic dishes like jambalaya and gumbo, to innovative twists on familiar favorites like tacos and pizza, these recipes showcase the versatility and depth of Cajun cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some new ideas to try out in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered with this collection of spicy Cajun chicken recipes.
Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta
This recipe combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning and spicy chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
4. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let cool.
5. In same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; stir until smooth. Bring to simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
7. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to pasta. Toss with Alfredo sauce and top with green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Cajun Chicken with Mango Salsa
Elevate your meal game with this bold fusion of flavors! This Blackened Cajun Chicken recipe combines the spicy kick of blackening seasoning with the sweetness of mango salsa, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken with blackening seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, lime juice, and cilantro in a bowl.
5. Serve blackened chicken with mango salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this hearty jambalaya dish, packed with spicy chicken, savory sausage, and a medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes; remove from pan.
3. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes; remove from pan.
4. Add onions, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Add cooked chicken and sausage back into the pan; stir to combine with vegetables and spices.
8. Serve over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes.
Grilled Cajun Chicken Skewers with Bell Peppers
Elevate your grilling game with these flavorful Cajun chicken skewers, perfectly paired with sweet bell peppers. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a colorful addition to your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning and olive oil. Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. Thread chicken, bell peppers, and onions onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush skewers with remaining olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through and bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Cajun Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Add a flavorful twist to traditional stuffed peppers with this Cajun-inspired recipe. Spicy chicken, bell peppers, and creamy rice come together for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Add Cajun seasoning, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the cooked chicken mixture, then top with shredded cheese (if using).
5. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
A spicy and satisfying twist on classic pasta dishes, this recipe combines the bold flavors of cajun seasonings with creamy pasta goodness. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or linguine)
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and Cajun seasoning; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet; stir until combined and heated through.
4. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture in a serving bowl; sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Gumbo
This hearty and flavorful gumbo is a staple of Cajun cuisine, combining chicken, shrimp, and spicy seasonings with a rich roux-based broth. Perfect for a cold winter night or as a main course for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Cajun seasoning blend
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove chicken and set aside. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onion, celery, and garlic; sauté until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the top and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add chicken broth and water, whisking continuously. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until gumbo thickens.
6. Add Cajun seasoning blend and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Cajun Chicken and Rice
This hearty one-pan dish combines juicy chicken, flavorful rice, and spicy Cajun seasoning for a satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add onion, garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in rice, chicken broth, and browned chicken; bring to a boil.
6. Cover skillet with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cajun Chicken Tacos with Avocado Crema
Spice up your taco Tuesday with this bold and creamy twist on traditional tacos. Crispy Cajun chicken, crunchy slaw, and a tangy avocado crema come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Slaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Avocado crema (see below for recipe)
– Chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and diced tomatoes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with shredded chicken, slaw, and avocado crema. Garnish with cilantro, lime wedges, and diced tomatoes.
Avocado Crema Recipe:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Baked Cajun Chicken Thighs with Sweet Potatoes
Baked Cajun Chicken Thighs with Sweet Potatoes
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe! Crispy chicken thighs smothered in a spicy Cajun seasoning blend pair perfectly with sweet potatoes roasted to perfection.
- Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning blend
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning blend, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle olive oil over chicken thighs and sprinkle with the Cajun mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
- Place sweet potato cubes on a separate baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes. Servings: 4.
Cajun Chicken Caesar Salad
Add a spicy twist to the classic Caesar salad with this Cajun-inspired recipe. Tender chicken, crispy bacon, and tangy dressing come together for a flavor-packed meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup croutons
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, crumbled bacon, and croutons.
5. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the bowl.
6. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad and top with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken and Corn Chowder
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of spicy and savory flavors, with tender chicken and sweet corn cooked to perfection. A great option for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, diced tomatoes, corn kernels, onion, garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper in a slow cooker.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour in the chicken broth.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and crusty bread if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Cajun Chicken Quesadillas with Pepper Jack Cheese
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these bold and flavorful Cajun Chicken Quesadillas! This recipe combines the perfect blend of spicy chicken, melted pepper jack cheese, and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 8 oz pepper jack cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix chicken, Cajun seasoning, and garlic. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken mixture; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Place one tortilla in the skillet; sprinkle with shredded cheese and a few pieces of cooked chicken. Fold tortilla in half to enclose filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and tortilla is crispy.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Wings
Spice up your snack game with this Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Wings recipe! These crispy, flavorful wings are perfect for a quick and delicious snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken wings
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken wings and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the olive oil and toss the wings to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
5. Load the wings into the Air Fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Check for crispiness and cook an additional 2-3 minutes if needed.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun Chicken and Andouille Sausage Grits
Get ready for a flavorful breakfast or brunch with this hearty dish that combines spicy chicken, smoky sausage, and creamy grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken in butter until cooked through. Add Cajun seasoning and stir to combine.
3. Add sliced Andouille sausage to the skillet and cook until browned.
4. Combine cooked grits with the chicken and sausage mixture. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cajun Chicken Stuffed Mushrooms
These mouthwatering stuffed mushrooms combine the earthy flavor of sautéed mushrooms with the bold spices of Cajun chicken. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and Cajun seasoning to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the chicken mixture, dividing it evenly among the caps.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each mushroom.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken Sandwich with Remoulade
Add a spicy kick to your sandwich game with this mouthwatering Spicy Cajun Chicken Sandwich, paired with a creamy and tangy Remoulade sauce. This flavorful combination is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and cheese (optional)
– Remoulade sauce (recipe below)
Spicy Cajun Chicken:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Frank’s RedHot Sauce and mayonnaise.
3. Add the Cajun seasoning to the sauce mixture and stir until combined.
4. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the spicy sauce over them. Let marinate for 10-15 minutes.
5. Grill or cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Remoulade Sauce:
1. Mix together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup ketchup, 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, and 1 tsp Dijon mustard.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Assembly:
1. Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips.
2. Assemble sandwiches with chicken, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and cheese (if using).
3. Serve with a dollop of Remoulade sauce on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Chicken and Crawfish Étouffée
This hearty étouffée combines the rich flavors of Cajun country with succulent chicken and crawfish, all smothered in a spicy tomato-based sauce. A perfect dish for any seafood lover!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup crawfish tails
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, celery, garlic, thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until chicken is browned and vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in crawfish tails and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Cajun Chicken Pizza with Spicy Ranch Drizzle
Elevate your pizza game with this bold and flavorful combination of spicy Cajun chicken, crispy crust, and tangy ranch dressing. Perfect for a quick dinner or party appetizer!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Spicy Ranch Drizzle (see below)
Spicy Ranch Drizzle:
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken breast with Cajun seasoning and olive oil.
3. Grill or bake the chicken until cooked through, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
4. Roll out pizza crust, spread shredded mozzarella cheese, and top with chopped cilantro and Cajun chicken.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, mix Spicy Ranch Drizzle ingredients in a bowl.
7. Serve pizza with drizzled Spicy Ranch sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Chicken and Okra Stir-Fry
Cajun Chicken and Okra Stir-Fry Recipe
Summary: This spicy and flavorful stir-fry combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with succulent chicken, crispy okra, and a hint of smoky heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups okra, sliced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the sliced okra and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir to combine with the okra mixture.
7. Cook for an additional minute, then garnish with scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these 20 delicious Cajun chicken recipes! From pasta dishes like Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta and Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, to tacos and sandwiches like Cajun Chicken Tacos with Avocado Crema and Spicy Cajun Chicken Sandwich with Remoulade. You’ll also find classic Louisiana-inspired dishes like Jambalaya and Gumbo, as well as innovative twists on traditional recipes. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or smoky, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
