Description
This Cajun Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a smoky, spicy blend of Cajun seasonings, pan-seared to golden perfection in butter and olive oil. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a flavorful, quick meal perfect for weeknights or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Cooking Essentials
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon sliced green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Flatten the Pieces: Thoroughly dry each chicken breast with a paper towel. Place one piece between two plastic sheets or inside a large plastic bag and pound to an even thickness with a meat mallet, about ¾” thick. Repeat with the remaining pieces.
- Making Cajun Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper to make the seasoning mix.
- Season the Surface: Evenly sprinkle both sides of the flattened chicken breasts with the Cajun seasoning blend, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil, and once it is hot and shimmering, place the chicken breasts presentation side down. Cook for 3 minutes to develop a golden crust, then reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking for about 2 minutes. Flip the chicken pieces and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, occasionally baste the chicken with the butter. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 160 to 165ºF (71 to 74ºC), approximately 5 to 8 minutes more.
- Rest: Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate or cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Slice and serve garnished with sliced green onions.
Notes
- Flattening the chicken ensures even cooking and tender texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Basting with butter infuses extra flavor and keeps the chicken moist.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
- Letting the chicken rest before slicing helps retain juiciness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Cajun
