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Close-up of Spicy Cajun Chicken with Smoky Paprika served in a rich, orange cream sauce and garnished with cilantro.

Spicy Cajun Chicken with Smoky Paprika

This recipe delivers a flavorful, spicy Cajun chicken dish featuring a creamy, cheesy sauce with a hint of smokiness from paprika. It is designed for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 cup chicken broth adds depth and moisture
  • 1 cup heavy cream creates a creamy texture
  • 2 tablespoons honey balances spice
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce for heat
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning signature flavor
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar enhances sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder adds tang
  • 1 teaspoon oregano herb flavor
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for extra heat
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes intensifies spice
For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts lean protein
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning for seasoning chicken
  • 1/2 cup flour for crust
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil for searing
  • 2 tablespoons butter enhances flavor
  • 3 cloves garlic savory undertone
For the Finish
  • 1 tablespoon flour for thickening
  • 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies zesty addition
  • 1 cup cheddar jack cheese melts beautifully
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice brightens flavors
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Measuring cup
  • Bowl

Method
 

  1. Drain the diced tomatoes, reserving the juice in a bowl.
  2. Combine all the sauce ingredients in a large measuring cup.
  3. Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise and pound to about ½-inch thickness.
  4. Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning and sprinkle with flour.
  5. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side.
  6. Add reserved juice from tomatoes to the skillet.
  7. Melt butter in the skillet and add minced garlic.
  8. Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes.
  9. Gradually pour in the sauce mixture and bring to a boil, then simmer.
  10. Incorporate drained diced tomatoes and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  11. Reduce heat to low, sprinkle in cheddar jack cheese and stir until melted.
  12. Mix in lime juice and add chicken back to skillet.
  13. Simmer uncovered for about 4 minutes, add lime wedges, and sprinkle with cilantro.

Nutrition

Calories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 36gFat: 36gSaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 780mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

This recipe uses Cajun seasoning which contains paprika, contributing to the smoky flavor profile mentioned in the title.

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