Description
Spicy Cajun Lime Chicken dances with zesty Louisiana flavors, blending bold Creole seasonings and tangy citrus. Creamy sauce and perfectly seared chicken promise a mouthwatering meal that will transport you straight to New Orleans’ vibrant culinary scene.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Proteins:
- 600 grams (21.16 ounces) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Spices and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion granules
- 1 teaspoon garlic granules
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 sweet red pepper, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 200 milliliters (6.76 fluid ounces) chicken stock
- 150 milliliters (5.07 fluid ounces) single cream
- 100 grams (3.53 ounces) cherry tomatoes
- 1 lime
Instructions
- Blend Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, onion granules, garlic granules, and oregano with olive oil to create a robust marinade for chicken thighs.
- Preheat a large skillet to medium-high heat (375°F). Sear chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes per side until achieving a golden-brown crispy exterior.
- Transfer chicken to a plate, reserving the flavorful pan drippings.
- In the same skillet, gently sauté finely chopped shallots, diced sweet red peppers, and minced garlic until they become translucent and aromatic.
- Sprinkle additional smoked paprika and Cajun seasoning over the vegetables, allowing the spices to bloom and release their intense flavors.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken stock, scraping up any caramelized bits from the bottom to enhance the sauce’s depth.
- Reduce heat to low and incorporate single cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth, velvety sauce.
- Add whole cherry tomatoes and carefully return the chicken thighs to the skillet.
- Simmer the dish for 10-15 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish by squeezing fresh lime juice over the dish, providing a bright, tangy counterpoint to the rich, creamy sauce.
Notes
- Create a spice blend ahead of time and store in an airtight container for quick future use, perfect for busy weeknight cooking.
- Swap single cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter, dairy-free alternative that maintains the creamy texture.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure maximum crispiness and better sear on the meat’s surface.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning levels depending on personal heat tolerance, starting with less and gradually increasing for desired spiciness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg