Looking to turn up the flavor without turning up the effort? This Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers recipe is your answer. Packed with zesty Cajun spices and the natural sweetness of bell peppers, it’s a one-pan wonder that fits any busy schedule. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a hungry crowd, this dish brings bold flavor and vibrant color to your plate in no time.
Why You’ll Love Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
Cajun cuisine is famous for its bold spices, hearty ingredients, and soulful flavors. This dish combines all three in a healthy, high-protein meal that’s perfect for:
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Quick weeknight dinners
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Meal prep and leftovers
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Low-carb or high-protein diets
The combination of lean chicken breast and sautéed bell peppers offers a nutrient-rich meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. And thanks to its minimal ingredients and simple prep, it’s an ideal choice for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to bring this spicy masterpiece to life:
Main Ingredients:
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into strips)
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3 bell peppers (use a mix of red, green, and yellow), sliced
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1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
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2 tbsp olive oil
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Juice of ½ lemon (optional for freshness)
Cajun Spice Blend:
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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½ tsp dried thyme
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½ tsp dried oregano
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¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
💡 Tip: You can also use store-bought Cajun seasoning, but homemade blends give you more control over spice levels.
Kitchen Tools Required
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Large non-stick skillet or sauté pan
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Mixing bowls
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Knife and cutting board
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Tongs or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Prep the Chicken
In a medium bowl, add sliced chicken and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle with the Cajun spice blend and toss well to coat evenly. Set aside to marinate for 5–10 minutes while you prep the veggies.
2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender but still crisp. Remove and set aside.
3: Cook the Chicken
In the same skillet, add the seasoned chicken strips. Cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked vegetables back into the pan with the chicken. Stir to combine and let everything heat through for an additional 2 minutes. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the top for brightness (optional).
Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or in warm tortillas for a Cajun chicken wrap.
Serving Ideas & Variations
Delicious Serving Suggestions
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Over rice or cauliflower rice for a balanced bowl.
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In tortillas with a dollop of sour cream and avocado.
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On a salad with romaine, corn, and black beans for a Tex-Mex twist.
Recipe Variations
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Add cream to make it a Cajun chicken skillet with a velvety sauce.
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Toss in mushrooms for added umami.
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Make it dairy-friendly with a topping of shredded cheese.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving – Approximate)
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Calories: 320
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Protein: 32g
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Carbs: 12g
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Fat: 17g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 5g
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and added ingredients.
Tips for the Perfect Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
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Slice evenly: Make sure your chicken and bell peppers are cut into uniform strips for even cooking.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: If needed, cook in batches to get a good sear on the chicken.
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Adjust spice to your taste: Cajun spice can be bold—reduce the cayenne if you’re spice-sensitive.
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Meal prep friendly: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Conclusion
Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a meal full of soul, spice, and satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this colorful skillet delivers bold flavor without the fuss.
Ready to spice up your dinner game? Try this recipe tonight and don’t forget to share your creation with #CajunChickenMagic on social media!
FAQs about Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! If you’re short on time, cooked rotisserie chicken works well. Just add the spices while sautéing with the peppers.
2. Is Cajun chicken spicy?
It has a noticeable kick, but you can easily adjust the heat by using less cayenne or choosing a mild Cajun blend.
3. Can I freeze Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in a skillet for best results.
4. What other vegetables go well in this dish?
Zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes are all great additions that complement the Cajun flavors.
5. Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and follow the same seasoning method.
