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Introduction

Craving a bold, spicy dish that’s quick to whip up and packed with Southern flair? Look no further than Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers! This oven-baked recipe features juicy chicken breasts coated in a zesty Cajun seasoning, topped with creamy cheese and served over tender bell peppers. The combination of smoky spices, melty cream cheese, and vibrant peppers creates a comforting, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Ready to bring a taste of Louisiana to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this easy, flavor-packed recipe that’s sure to spice up your dinner!

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Overview: Why Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is a Winner

Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is a one-pan dish that marries tender chicken breasts with a bold Cajun spice blend, creamy cheese, and sweet bell peppers. Baked to perfection, it’s a low-carb, high-protein meal that’s both hearty and vibrant. The cream cheese and cheddar melt into a rich topping, while the peppers add a fresh, colorful base.

Time Requirement: 10 minutes prep, 20-30 minutes baking, plus 5 minutes for serving.
Difficulty Level: Easy! It’s a simple mix-and-bake recipe, perfect for beginners or busy cooks.
Why It’s Special: This dish is quick to prep, keto-friendly, and packed with bold flavors. The one-pan method minimizes cleanup, and the customizable spice level makes it a hit with everyone.

This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with a Southern-inspired feast. It’s a dish that delivers big on taste and comfort!

Essential Ingredients

The magic of Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers comes from its simple, high-impact ingredients. Each one adds flavor, texture, or richness to create a balanced, delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cajun Seasoning

Paprika (1 tsp): Adds smoky, mild sweetness.
- Substitution: Smoked paprika for deeper smokiness or chili powder for a different flavor.
Cayenne Pepper (¼ tsp): Brings a spicy kick.
- Substitution: Red pepper flakes or omit for less heat.
Oregano (¼ tsp): Provides earthy, herbal notes.
- Substitution: Dried thyme or Italian seasoning.
Thyme (¼ tsp): Adds warm, aromatic depth.
- Substitution: Dried rosemary or oregano.
Salt (¼ tsp): Enhances all the flavors.
- Substitution: Sea salt or low-sodium options for dietary needs.

Chicken and Toppings

Bell Peppers (2 small, thinly sliced): Adds sweetness and crunch (red, yellow, or green work).
- Substitution: Mini sweet peppers, poblano peppers, or zucchini slices.
Chicken Breasts (4 small): Lean and tender, perfect for even cooking.
- Substitution: Chicken thighs for juicier results or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with savory, aromatic flavor.
- Substitution: 1 tsp garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
Cream Cheese (6 oz, cold, sliced into 8 slices): Creates a creamy, tangy topping.
- Substitution: Neufchâtel for a lighter option or a vegan cream cheese alternative.
Cheddar Cheese (½ cup, shredded): Melts into a gooey, savory layer.
- Substitution: Monterey Jack, Colby, or a vegan cheddar alternative.

Why They’re Important: The Cajun seasoning gives the chicken its bold, spicy character, the bell peppers add a fresh, colorful base, and the cream cheese and cheddar create a rich, melty topping. Together, they make a perfectly balanced, flavorful dish.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is a breeze—just season, layer, and bake. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Make the Cajun Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine 1 tsp paprika, ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, ¼ tsp oregano, ¼ tsp thyme, and ¼ tsp salt. Stir to mix evenly.
Set aside, reserving any extra seasoning for future use or additional sprinkling.
- Tip: Double the batch and store in an airtight container for quick use in other recipes.

Step 2: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Tip: Use a dish with enough space to fit the chicken breasts in a single layer without crowding.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

Spread 2 thinly sliced bell peppers evenly across the bottom of the casserole dish, creating a colorful bed for the chicken.
Place 4 small chicken breasts on top of the peppers, ensuring they don’t overlap too much.
Generously sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the chicken breasts, coating them evenly. You don’t need to use all the seasoning—save any extra for later or other dishes.
Sprinkle 4 minced garlic cloves evenly over the chicken.
Place 2 slices of cold cream cheese (from 6 oz total, cut into 8 slices) on top of each chicken breast.
Sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cream cheese and chicken.
- Tip: Slice the cream cheese straight from the fridge for easier handling, and use a sharp knife to make clean cuts.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the chicken uncovered in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Check smaller breasts at 20 minutes to avoid overcooking; larger ones may need closer to 30 minutes.
- Tip: If the cheese browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last 10 minutes.

Step 5: Broil (Optional)

For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, switch the oven to broil and broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to settle.
- Tip: Keep the oven door slightly ajar while broiling to monitor the cheese.

Step 6: Serve

Use a spatula to scoop the bell peppers from underneath each chicken breast. Arrange the peppers around and on top of the chicken for a colorful presentation.
Serve hot, ensuring each plate gets a mix of chicken, peppers, and cheesy topping.
- Tip: Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Cajun seasoning for a vibrant finish.

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Assembly: Serving Your Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers

Now it’s time to plate this spicy, cheesy dish and make it look as good as it tastes! Here’s how to assemble Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers:

Serve the Chicken: Place a chicken breast on each plate, ensuring it’s topped with melted cream cheese and cheddar.
Add the Peppers: Scoop a portion of the tender bell peppers from the casserole dish and arrange them around and over the chicken for color and flavor.
Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, a pinch of Cajun seasoning, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flair.
- Presentation Tip: Use white or colorful plates to highlight the vibrant peppers and golden cheese. A sprig of parsley or a lemon wedge adds a restaurant-worthy touch.
Optional Sides: Pair with cauliflower rice, mashed potatoes, or a green salad for a complete meal. For a Southern twist, serve with cornbread or collard greens.

Pro Tip: Serve family-style by placing the entire casserole dish on the table with a spatula, letting everyone scoop their own portion—it’s a cozy, communal way to enjoy this dish!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is great for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Storing Leftovers:
- Let the chicken and peppers cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave (1-2 minutes, stirring halfway) or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, covered, with a splash of broth to keep moist.
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Seasoning: Mix the Cajun seasoning up to a week ahead and store in an airtight container.
- Prep: Slice peppers and mince garlic a day ahead and store in the fridge. Assemble the casserole (without baking) up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add cheese just before baking.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and peppers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
Cheese: Shred cheddar and slice cream cheese a day ahead and store in the fridge.

Tip: Use leftovers in wraps, salads, or as a topping for baked potatoes for a quick, flavorful meal.

Recipe Variations

Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is super versatile—here are some fun ways to mix it up:

Spicy Version: Increase cayenne to ½ tsp or add a sliced jalapeño with the bell peppers for extra heat.
Vegetarian: Swap chicken for thick slices of eggplant, zucchini, or portobello mushrooms, seasoned with Cajun spices.
Creamy Sauce: After baking, mix the pan juices with ¼ cup heavy cream for a pourable sauce to drizzle over the chicken.
Low-Carb/Keto: This recipe is naturally low-carb, but serve with cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles for a full keto meal.
Cheesy Twist: Add ¼ cup shredded mozzarella or pepper jack for an even gooier topping.
Sausage Swap: Replace chicken with sliced andouille sausage for a more authentic Cajun flavor.

Get creative and make it your own—this recipe loves a little experimentation!

Conclusion

You’re now ready to make Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers that’ll bring Southern spice to your table! This dish is all about bold, cheesy flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy family meal, or meal-prepping for the week, it’s sure to be a hit. So preheat your oven, layer those ingredients, and let the kitchen fill with the irresistible aroma of Cajun spices and melted cheese. Play with spice levels, try new sides, and enjoy every creamy, zesty bite. Happy cooking!

Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers

Author: Alyssa

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