Description
This Cajun Chicken with Creamy Cajun Sauce recipe features tender, flavorful chicken breasts seasoned with bold Cajun spices and smothered in a rich, creamy sauce made with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of smoked paprika. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that delivers a spicy, comforting dish with a luxurious sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Fat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning along with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors penetrate the meat.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce skillet heat to medium and add unsalted butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to start thickening the sauce.
- Flavor Sauce: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if desired for extra heat. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Continue to simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, turning to coat them thoroughly with the creamy Cajun sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to heat through and absorb the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken and sauce before serving. Serve hot and enjoy a spicy, creamy Cajun-inspired meal.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase cayenne pepper or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream but expect a slightly thinner sauce.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
