Name: Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 Boneless chicken breasts; 2 Red bell peppers; 1 Yellow bell pepper; 4 oz Cream cheese (softened); 1 cup Cheddar cheese (shredded); 1 tsp Paprika; 1/2 tsp Cayenne pepper (adjust for heat); 1 tsp Oregano; 1 tsp Thyme; 1/2 tsp Salt; 2 cloves Garlic (minced)

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The first time I made this Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe, I was amazed by how a simple combination of spices, vibrant vegetables, and creamy cheese could create such a flavorful and satisfying dish. The chicken comes out juicy, the peppers beautifully tender, and the Cajun spices add a perfect hint of heat.

And don’t get me started on the cheesy topping; it gives the dish a luxurious, gooey finish that’s irresistible. This one-pan recipe has become my favorite for weeknights, special dinners, or whenever I want a low-carb, gluten-free meal that looks as good as it tastes.

The Must-Have Ingredients

Each ingredient brings something special to this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

boneless chicken breasts (4): Tender and lean, they absorb the spices beautifully.
bell peppers (2 red, 1 yellow): Fresh and sweet, they add a delightful crunch and balance to the spices.
cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Melts into a creamy topping with a slight tang.
cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): The ultimate comfort food ingredient, adding richness and gooey texture.
paprika (1 teaspoon): Smoky and warm, it forms the base of the Cajun seasoning.
cayenne pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a subtle kick to the flavor profile; adjust for heat preference.
oregano (1 teaspoon): Earthy and aromatic, it’s a key herb in Cajun seasoning.
thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds a fresh, savory element to the spice mix.
salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the natural flavors of the dish.
garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides a punch of flavor to tie it all together.

Note: This recipe serves 4 and is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.

Tasty Variations to Try

Love to customize your recipes? Here are some easy variations!

Switch the protein: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for juicier meat, or use tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Go lactose-free: Sub the cream cheese and cheddar for dairy-free alternatives.
Extra flavor kick: Add smoked paprika or red pepper flakes to amp up the heat and smokiness.
Add more veggies: Try mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for additional texture and nutrients.

Cooking Time

This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for busy days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish stress-free and easy to clean up!

Casserole dish: Perfect for baking everything evenly in just one pan.
Sharp knife: Essential for slicing the chicken and peppers.
Mixing bowl: To combine your custom Cajun seasoning.
Tongs: Help handle the chicken and ensure even seasoning.

How to Make Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers?

This recipe is simple, rewarding, and full of flavor. Follow these easy steps, and you’re guaranteed rave reviews!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures the chicken cooks evenly without drying out, giving you juicy, tender results every time.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

Slice your red and yellow bell peppers into thin strips. Spread them evenly across the bottom of your casserole dish. They’ll caramelize as they bake, turning sweet and tender, perfectly complementing the spicy chicken.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Mix paprika, cayenne, oregano, thyme, and a touch of salt in a small bowl to form your Cajun spice blend. Generously coat your chicken breasts with the seasoning, ensuring every side is well covered. This blend of spices gives the dish its bold, signature flavor.

Step 4: Add the Cheesy Toppings

Place the seasoned chicken breasts over the layer of peppers in the casserole dish. Sprinkle minced garlic over the top, then place two slices of softened cream cheese on each breast. Finish by topping the entire dish with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Bake Until Perfection

Transfer the casserole dish to your preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 20–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For that mouthwatering golden crust, switch to the broil setting for the last 2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove your bubbling, cheesy Cajun chicken from the oven and serve it hot. Scoop up some of the sweet peppers along with the chicken for the perfect bite. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheddar for a beautiful presentation.

Pro Tips to Elevate Your Recipe

From my experience, a few small tweaks can take this dish to the next level.

Use room-temperature cream cheese: It melts faster and more evenly, preventing clumps in your cheesy topping.
Broil for the win: Those extra two minutes under the broiler add a satisfying golden crisp to the cheese.
Adjust the heat: For mild spice, reduce the cayenne. Like it hot? Add chili powder or red pepper flakes.

How to Serve Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers?

Want to serve this dish like a pro? Here are some ideas to make it even better.

Over rice: Fluffy white rice or cilantro-lime rice will soak up the creamy, cheesy sauce beautifully.
With veggies: Side it with roasted green beans, asparagus, or a fresh salad for a balanced plate.
Just as it is: This dish is hearty and satisfying on its own, the perfect low-carb meal!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the breakdown for one serving of this delicious dish.

Calories: 485
Protein: 54g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 25g

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is great for meal prep or saving leftovers for another day.

Make Ahead: You can slice the peppers and season the chicken up to a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge, then assemble the dish just before baking.

Storage: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven or microwave with a splash of water to keep the chicken from drying out.

Freezing: This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream cheese topping, which can separate when thawed. But it’s so good fresh, you probably won’t have leftovers to freeze anyway!

Why This Recipe Will Win You Over?

This Cajun chicken dish is a weeknight staple for all the right reasons.

Fast and simple: It’s ready in just 45 minutes with minimal prep.
Packed with flavor: Bold Cajun spices, creamy cheese, and sweet peppers make every bite a delight.
Great for dietary needs: Naturally gluten-free and low-carb, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
Customizable: Adapt the heat level, protein, or veggie inclusions to suit your taste.
One-pan wonder: Less cleanup, more time to relax and enjoy your meal.

This Cajun chicken with bell peppers recipe proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish. Easy to make, full of comforting bold flavors, and endlessly adaptable, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll return to time and again!