Cajun Chicken Skillet with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and creamy goodness, then you need to try this Cajun Chicken Skillet with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe. It perfectly balances the smoky, spicy Cajun seasoning with the tangy brightness of sun-dried tomatoes and lime, all swirled into a luscious creamy sauce that hugs tender chicken cutlets. This skillet meal is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a colorful, comforting dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare any night of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to this recipe, the ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but pack a serious punch. Each component plays a special role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color to make your skillet meal unforgettable.

• 4 boneless skinless chicken cutlets: These cook quickly and stay juicy, serving as the perfect protein base.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps to lightly coat the chicken for a subtle crust and aids in thickening the sauce.
• 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning: Infuses the chicken and sauce with that signature spicy, aromatic kick.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all other flavors.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Used for searing and sautéing, it adds a fruity richness.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and depth when cooking the chicken and onions.
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced): Provides sweetness and a soft bite that complements the spices.
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (roughly chopped): Adds tangy complexity and vibrant color.
• 3 garlic cloves (minced): Brings an irresistible aroma and pungent flavor.
• Juice of a lime: Brightens the sauce with refreshing citrus notes.
• ¼ cup chicken broth: Builds a flavorful base for the creamy sauce without heaviness.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce its luxuriously smooth and rich texture.
• ½ cup parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth that melts beautifully into the cream.
• 2 teaspoons lime juice: An extra hit of citrus to balance the cream and spice.
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (for garnish): Offers a fresh herbal pop and pretty presentation.
• Lime wedges and rice (for serving): Classic accompaniments that absorb the sauce and round out the meal.

How to Make Cajun Chicken Skillet with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Skillet

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This combination ensures your chicken gets a beautiful sear with plenty of flavor.

Step 2: Season and Coat the Chicken

Pat your chicken cutlets dry with a paper towel—it helps them brown nicely. Then, season both sides with half of your Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Lightly dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off the excess for just the right amount of coating to create a slight crust.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken in the hot skillet and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep it juicy as you move on to the sauce.

Step 4: Sauté the Onions

Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet followed by your diced onions. Sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent, releasing their natural sweetness that balances the Cajun spice.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another minute. This step releases their bold flavors and deepens the aroma that will soon fill your kitchen.

Step 6: Build the Sauce Base

Pour in the chicken broth along with the remaining Cajun seasoning. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan — they are pure flavor gold! Let the broth simmer and reduce slightly, concentrating the taste.

Step 7: Add Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and lime juice. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens into a rich, velvety dream.

Step 8: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet, spooning plenty of sauce on top. Let everything simmer together for 1 to 2 minutes to marry those flavors.

Step 9: Finish and Garnish

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish. Serve immediately with lime wedges and rice to soak up every drop of that indulgent sauce. Get ready for compliments!

How to Serve Cajun Chicken Skillet with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a must for that lovely green contrast and a burst of herbal brightness at the end. Lime wedges alongside the skillet bring an optional zing your guests will appreciate for added freshness.

Side Dishes

Rice is your best friend here, perfectly catching the creamy sauce’s lusciousness. If you want lighter options, steamed vegetables or a simple green salad provide balance and a fresh counterpoint.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this skillet straight at the table for a cozy, rustic vibe or plate each chicken cutlet individually topped with sauce for a more elegant dinner. For a fun twist, try spooning the saucy chicken over creamy mashed potatoes or even buttery polenta.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling completely, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a delicious next-day meal.

Freezing

This Cajun Chicken Skillet with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. When properly sealed, it will keep well for up to 2 months without sacrificing flavor.

Reheating

For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight then gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid high heat to keep the cream sauce from separating and the chicken tender.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken cutlets?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully here and bring a little extra juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes if I don’t have any?

You can use cherry tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a similar sweetness and tang. Keep in mind the texture will be softer, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?

Yes! Simply reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a mild blend. You can also balance the heat by adding a splash of cream or serving with cooling sides like cucumber salad.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Definitely. Swap heavy cream for a coconut cream or cashew cream alternative and use a vegan parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast to maintain richness without dairy.

How long does this dish take from start to finish?

From prep to plate, you’re looking at about 30 minutes total. It’s a fantastic option for a weeknight meal that feels indulgent but doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen.

Final Thoughts

This Cajun Chicken Skillet with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe is a celebration of flavor that’s both comforting and impressively flavorful without complicated steps. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again to share with family and friends, bringing warmth and deliciousness straight to your dinner table. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!

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