Looking for a simple yet flavorful chicken recipe that brings just the right amount of heat? This easy Cajun Chicken recipe is made with a delicious blend of Cajun spices that adds a zesty kick to every bite. It’s quick to make, wholesome, and packed with protein—perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a little spice!
This dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it with a side of roasted veggies for a lighter meal, or pair it with pasta for something heartier. I love to use chicken tenders here, they turn out tender and juicy every time and are extremely budget friendly. But if you prefer breasts, thighs, or a whole bird, this rub will work for any of them. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time and temperature.
The bold flavors are a hit with my entire family—even the little ones love it! It’s spicy enough to be exciting but mild enough to please everyone at the table.
What makes this recipe even better? I’ve created my own Cajun seasoning mix that works beautifully as a rub or marinade, making it easy to whip up this chicken whenever the craving strikes. It’s a recipe we enjoy year-round and one I know you’ll come back to again and again.
Since chicken is such a staple in our home, I love sharing recipes that elevate this everyday ingredient. If you’re a fan of this Cajun chicken, don’t miss my easy Lemon Chicken or Chicken Piccata Milanese—both are bursting with flavor and just as simple to make!
A few months ago I shared my Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe. Now I’m excited to share just how easy it is to make Cajun spiced chicken, too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Wholesome – Cajun chicken is gluten-free, paleo, whole30, and keto.
- Just Spicy Enough – Without being too hot!
- Flexible – You can use store bought Cajun seasoning for this easy chicken recipe. There are a lot of great Cajun spice blends available at your local supermarket.
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Chicken Tenders – You can use chicken tenders or slice chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Olive oil coats the chicken and seals the moisture in. It also helps spices to adhere. If you prefer, you can also use melted butter.
- Cajun Chicken Seasoning – Mix up your own using the recipe below, or choose your favorite Cajun spice blend!
Cajun Seasoning
- Salt
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Black pepper
- Onion powder
- Cayenne pepper
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Red pepper flakes
Variations
- Too much heat? Eliminate red pepper flakes for milder flavor. If you want a little extra heat add more red pepper flakes.
How to Make My Cajun Chicken
- Pour olive oil into a shallow bowl. Dredge the chicken tenders through the olive oil and coat both sides.
- Pour cajun chicken seasoning on a plate. Dip each tender to coat.
- Place in a cast iron skillet over medium heat.
- Cook as directed, and then flip and cook for longer until completely cooked.
Cajun Chicken Marinade
This recipe can also be used as a marinade, which will give the chicken a deeper, more intense flavor.
- To make a Cajun marinade, use a large ziplock bag.
- Combine Cajun seasoning recipe (above) with extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice.
- Pour over chicken and let marinate in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
- Cook as usual.
Free Printable Meat Temperature Chart
Get the free printable Meat Temperature Chart to ensure your chicken is cooked properly based on the cooking method and meat you select.
Tips From My Test Kitchen
I love using the cast iron skillet to give this chicken a smokey authentic flavor. Just make sure you heat the skillet before adding chicken to make it nonstick. After the skillet is hot, reduce to desired temperature and add your ingredients.
However, this Cajun chicken recipe can also be baked in the oven or grilled outdoors!
If you prefer to use my Baked Chicken Breast method, simply complete steps one and two. Then place in a baking dish in a preheated oven. Remove and allow to cool.
Frequently Asked Questions
While there is a little heat, Cajun chicken is easy to customize to your taste preferences and you can go as hot or as mild as you’d like. Cajun spices tend to be smoky and earthy, too, so there is a lot of nuance to this dish.
The combination of paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano and garlic are iconic to most Cajun seasoning blends. However, there are many variations with a wide spectrum of additions!
Serving Suggestions
This chicken can stand on its own! It can be the perfect smokey spicy protein at the center of your meal.
How to Store
- Room Temperature – Chicken can only sit out for two hours at room temperature safely – after that, it must be refrigerated.
- Refrigerate – If you have leftovers, not to worry. This chicken stores easily in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Freezer – Cajun chicken freezes beautifully! It’s great to pull out of the freezer and use in other dinners. Store in an airtight container for up to three months.
Leftover Idea
You can serve chicken cold in a salad, added to a quesadilla, or in a fabulous chicken wrap.
More Delicious Chicken Recipes
-
Pour olive oil into a shallow dish or plate. Create a thin layer of cajun seasoning on another plate.
-
Coat the chicken tenders with olive oil followed by cajun seasoning.
-
Place a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add tenders. Cook for 4 minutes.
-
Flip ¼ and cook for 3 minutes or until completely cooked.
Calories: 137kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 48mg | Sodium: 90mg | Potassium: 357mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1695IU | Vitamin C: 0.9mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 1mg
Estimated nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is not guaranteed.
https://julieblanner.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/cajun-spiced-chicken.jpg
2025-01-09 14:00:00
