Introduction

Craving a bold, spicy dish that’s packed with Southern flair and comes together with minimal effort? Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is your answer! This vibrant, one-pan meal features juicy chicken breasts coated in a zesty Cajun seasoning, baked atop colorful bell peppers, and topped with creamy, cheesy goodness. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a flavorful twist on comfort food, this recipe delivers big flavors with simple ingredients. Ready to spice up your kitchen with this Cajun-inspired masterpiece? Let’s get cooking!

Overview

Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is a Southern-inspired dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a smoky, spicy Cajun seasoning, sweet bell peppers, and a rich cream cheese and cheddar topping. Baked in one dish, it’s a low-fuss, high-flavor meal.

Time Requirement: 10 minutes prep, 20–30 minutes baking, plus optional 2 minutes broiling.
Difficulty Level: Easy! Perfect for beginners, with straightforward assembly and minimal cleanup.
Why It’s Special: This recipe is quick, budget-friendly, and bursting with bold Cajun flavors. The bell peppers add sweetness and nutrition, while the creamy, cheesy topping creates a comforting, indulgent finish. It’s gluten-free, low-carb (without sides), and ideal for family dinners or meal prep.

Whether you’re a spice lover or just craving a hearty, colorful meal, this Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is sure to impress. Let’s dive in!

Essential Ingredients

The magic of Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers lies in its simple, high-impact ingredients. Each one adds flavor, texture, or richness to create a delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cajun Seasoning

Paprika (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds smoky, mild sweetness to the seasoning blend.
- Substitutions: Smoked paprika for extra smokiness or chili powder for a different kick.
Cayenne Pepper (¼ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Brings the signature Cajun heat.
- Substitutions: Red pepper flakes or omit for a milder flavor.
Oregano (¼ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Provides earthy, herbaceous notes.
- Substitutions: Dried thyme, basil, or Italian seasoning.
Thyme (¼ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds aromatic, slightly minty flavor.
- Substitutions: Dried rosemary or oregano.
Salt (¼ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the spices and chicken.

Chicken and Toppings

Bell Peppers (2 small, thinly sliced, or mini sweet peppers):
- Why it’s important: Adds sweetness, color, and a tender base that cooks under the chicken.
- Substitutions: Zucchini, mushrooms, or onions for different veggies.
Chicken Breasts (4 small, ~1–1.5 lbs total):
- Why it’s important: Lean, tender protein that absorbs the Cajun spices.
- Substitutions: Chicken thighs for juicier meat, or tofu/Portobello mushrooms for vegetarian.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the dish with warm, savory depth.
- Substitutions: 1 tsp garlic powder or 2 tsp garlic paste.
Cream Cheese (6 oz, cold, sliced into 8 pieces):
- Why it’s important: Creates a creamy, tangy layer that melts over the chicken.
- Substitutions: Neufchâtel for lower fat, goat cheese for tangier flavor, or vegan cream cheese.
Cheddar Cheese (½ cup, shredded):
- Why it’s important: Adds sharp, melty richness to the dish.
- Substitutions: Monterey Jack, Colby, or nutritional yeast for vegan.

Tip: Use small chicken breasts for even cooking, and choose a mix of red, yellow, or orange bell peppers for a vibrant, colorful dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is a breeze, with just a few steps to create a flavorful, one-pan meal. Follow these steps for a delicious result.

Step 1: Prepare the Cajun Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine 1 tsp paprika, ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, ¼ tsp oregano, ¼ tsp thyme, and ¼ tsp salt.
Mix well to blend the spices evenly.
Tip: Double the seasoning batch and store extras in an airtight container for future use.

Step 2: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Tip: Use a dish with enough space to fit the chicken and peppers comfortably in a single layer.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Spread 2 thinly sliced bell peppers evenly across the bottom of the casserole dish.
Place 4 small chicken breasts on top of the peppers, ensuring they don’t overlap.
Generously sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the chicken breasts, using as much as desired (you may not need all of it). Pat gently to adhere.
Evenly distribute 4 minced garlic cloves over the chicken.
Place 2 slices of cold cream cheese (from 6 oz, cut into 8 slices) on top of each chicken breast.
Sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cream cheese and chicken.
Tip: Slice cream cheese straight from the fridge for easier handling, and press gently to secure it on the chicken.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Check doneness at 20 minutes, as cooking time varies based on chicken size.
Tip: If the cheese browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 5–10 minutes.

Step 5: Broil (Optional)

For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, switch the oven to broil and broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Tip: Keep the dish on the middle rack during broiling to prevent scorching.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from the oven and let rest for 3–5 minutes.
To serve, scoop the softened bell peppers from underneath the chicken and arrange them around and on top of the chicken breasts.
Tip: Spoon any melted cheese and pan juices over the chicken for extra flavor.

Assembly

Assembling Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is all about creating a colorful, comforting plate. Here’s how to bring it together:

Serve the Chicken: Place a chicken breast on each plate, ensuring it’s topped with melted cream cheese and cheddar.
Add the Peppers: Scoop the tender, flavorful bell peppers from the casserole dish and arrange them around and over the chicken for color and texture.
Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of freshness, if desired.
Presentation Tips:
- Use white or colorful plates to highlight the vibrant peppers and golden cheese.
- Serve the chicken whole or slice it for a more elegant presentation, fanning the slices over the peppers.
- Pair with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or cornbread for a complete Southern-inspired meal.

Tip: For a family-style presentation, serve the entire casserole dish at the table, letting everyone scoop their own chicken and peppers.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Keep your Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers fresh and ready to enjoy with these tips:

Storing Leftovers:
- Store cooled chicken and peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave (1–2 minutes, stirring halfway) or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, covered, with a splash of broth to keep moist.
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Seasoning: Mix the Cajun seasoning up to a week in advance and store in an airtight container.
- Assembly: Prep the entire dish (peppers, chicken, seasoning, garlic, and cheeses) in the casserole dish up to 1 day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes if cold.
- Peppers and Garlic: Slice peppers and mince garlic up to 1 day in advance and store in the fridge.
Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and peppers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Note that cream cheese may separate slightly but will still taste good.

Tip: Leftover chicken and peppers can be chopped and used in wraps, quesadillas, or over rice for a quick meal.

Recipe Variations

Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is versatile and easy to customize. Try these creative twists:

Spicy Kick: Double the cayenne pepper or add ½ tsp hot sauce to the seasoning for extra heat.
Veggie Boost: Add sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or onions alongside the bell peppers for more variety.
Creamy Sauce: After baking, mix the pan juices with ¼ cup heavy cream for a pourable sauce to drizzle over the chicken.
Low-Carb Swap: Replace cream cheese with a smear of goat cheese or mascarpone for a different creamy texture, or omit cheese for a lighter dish.
Cajun Shrimp: Swap chicken for shrimp, seasoning and topping with cheese, and bake for 15–20 minutes until cooked through.

Tip: Adjust spice levels to suit your taste, but keep the creamy-cheesy topping for the signature comfort factor.

Conclusion

You’re now ready to make Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers—a dish that’s as bold as it is easy! With its spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken, sweet bell peppers, and creamy, cheesy topping, this recipe brings Southern comfort to your table with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or a low-carb meal prep option. Play with spices, veggies, or garnishes to make it your own, and enjoy the process as much as the food. Preheat your oven, whip up this flavorful masterpiece, and savor every delicious bite. Happy cooking!

Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers

Author: Jessica

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