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30-Minute Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers | Easy & Irresistible

Cajun chicken with bell peppers

A spicy and creamy Cajun chicken skillet with bell peppers, ready in 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-size pieces
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade), divided
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 3 bell peppers (mix of red and yellow), sliced into strips
  • 1 small yellow onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, extra smoky)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella (or Monterey Jack)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Toss chicken with 1 1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and nearly cooked through. Remove to a plate.
  3. Cook the peppers: Add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet. Add sliced peppers and onion and sauté 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  4. Build the sauce: Stir in tomato paste, remaining 1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, oregano, and smoked paprika. Pour in chicken broth and simmer 2 minutes, scraping up browned bits.
  5. Make it creamy: Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in heavy cream and simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Finish + melt cheese: Return chicken (and juices) to the skillet and simmer 2–3 minutes until cooked through (165°F). Sprinkle mozzarella on top, cover 1–2 minutes until melted.
  7. Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot over rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice.

Notes

  • Use a store-bought Cajun seasoning or make your own.
  • For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
  • Serve with rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken with bell peppers, chicken and peppers skillet, cheesy cajun chicken, 30 minute chicken dinner, spicy chicken and peppers, weeknight cajun chicken skillet