Description

This Cajun Chicken with Creamy Cajun Sauce recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts seasoned with bold Cajun spices and smothered in a rich, flavorful creamy sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of smoked paprika and cayenne. Quick to prepare and cooked on the stovetop, this dish makes a perfect weeknight dinner that pairs well with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.

Ingredients

Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil

Creamy Cajun Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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)
Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Season the chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with Cajun seasoning to infuse them with robust flavor.
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside to rest.
Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add unsalted butter and once melted, add minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, developing the sauce’s base flavor.
Add liquids and simmer: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously to combine all flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Incorporate seasonings and thicken sauce: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if using, and season with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a luscious creamy consistency.
Finish cooking chicken in sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to fully heat and meld flavors.
Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve the creamy Cajun chicken hot alongside your choice of sides.

Notes

For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon.
If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
The Cajun seasoning can be store-bought or homemade according to your taste preferences.
This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Ensure the chicken breasts are patted dry before seasoning to help achieve a good sear.