Chili’s Cajun Chicken is a flavorful and spicy dish that brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen. This copycat recipe replicates the bold Cajun seasoning and juicy, tender chicken that make the original so popular. With a simple homemade spice blend and a quick cooking process, you can enjoy this dish with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – This recipe requires only a few simple ingredients and comes together quickly.
- Packed with Flavor – The Cajun seasoning adds a bold and spicy kick, enhancing the overall taste.
- Healthier Alternative – Homemade means you can control the ingredients, avoiding excess sodium or preservatives.
- Versatile – Serve it with pasta, rice, vegetables, or even in a sandwich for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Olive oil or butter
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Lemon juice (optional, for added flavor)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken – Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. If they are thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Season the Chicken – Generously coat both sides of the chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat the Pan – In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken – Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve – Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Drizzle with lemon juice if desired and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Creamy Cajun Chicken – Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet after cooking the chicken for a rich, creamy sauce.
- Grilled Version – Instead of pan-frying, grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
- Spicier Kick – Increase the heat by adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Low-Carb Option – Serve with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables instead of pasta or regular rice.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the chicken tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
FAQs
How can I make homemade Cajun seasoning?
Combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, and salt. Adjust the spice level to taste.
Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What can I serve with Cajun chicken?
It pairs well with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and offer a juicier texture.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Do not overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Is this dish very spicy?
The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning used. You can reduce the heat by using less cayenne pepper.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply use oil instead of butter and ensure your seasoning blend is free of dairy ingredients.
What type of skillet is best for cooking this?
A cast-iron skillet works best for a good sear and even cooking.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, season the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to cook.
How do I make this a complete meal?
Serve with a side of pasta, a green salad, and a dinner roll for a well-balanced meal.
Conclusion
This Chili’s Copycat Cajun Chicken recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Whether you serve it with a side of pasta, vegetables, or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy a spicy and delicious homemade version of this popular restaurant favorite anytime!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A flavorful and creamy Cajun chicken pasta just like Chili’s restaurant! Spicy, creamy, and loaded with grilled chicken, this dish is perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Season chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, then cook chicken for about 6 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Slice and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth.
- Toss in cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, and season with salt and pepper.
- Top with sliced Cajun chicken and garnish with parsley. Serve hot!
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning for more or less spice.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
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