Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Flavorful and Simple Dish

by
To make Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken, gather these main ingredients: - 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 lemon, juiced - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup chicken broth These ingredients come together for a dish full of flavor. The Cajun seasoning is key in this dish. It adds warmth and depth. Smoked paprika gives a nice, smoky flavor. Garlic powder boosts the garlicky taste. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Adjust these spices to match your taste. Fresh parsley brightens up the dish. You can also add fresh thyme or oregano for more flavor. If you like heat, consider adding some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. These add-ons make the dish even more exciting. For a twist, serve with lemon slices for a zesty touch. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. To start, take your chicken breasts and season them well. Use Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat both sides. Press the spices into the meat. This helps the flavors stick. Allow the chicken to sit for a few minutes. This step lets the spices soak in. Next, grab a large skillet. Melt three tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Watch for it to melt and bubble. When it is ready, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining three tablespoons of butter. Let it melt before adding minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you don’t want it to burn. Then, pour in the chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds great flavor. Squeeze in the juice of the lemon and stir everything together. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Let them simmer in the garlic butter sauce for 3-5 minutes. This helps the chicken absorb all the tasty flavors. Once heated through, sprinkle chopped parsley on top. This adds a nice touch. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. To cook chicken breasts just right, start with even thickness. If they are uneven, pound them gently with a meat mallet. This helps them cook evenly. Season both sides well with Cajun seasoning and spices. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Melt three tablespoons of butter until it bubbles. Add chicken and cook for five to six minutes per side. You want a nice golden color. Check the internal temperature. It should be 165°F. If not, cook a bit longer. To boost flavor, consider adding a touch of lemon zest. This adds freshness to the dish. You can also toss in some sliced bell peppers or onions when cooking. They add sweetness and texture. For a twist, try adding some diced tomatoes. They will bring a lovely acidity. Fresh herbs, like thyme or basil, can also enhance the flavor. Just sprinkle them in during the last few minutes of cooking. One common mistake is overcrowding the skillet. If you pack too many chicken breasts in, they will steam instead of sear. This means no nice brown crust. Always give space between each piece. Another mistake is not letting the chicken rest after cooking. Let it sit for five minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices in. Lastly, don’t skip scraping the skillet. Those brown bits add tons of flavor to your sauce. If you follow these tips, your Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken will shine. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. {{image_2}} You can add more heat to your dish by using a spicy Cajun seasoning. This simple twist makes the chicken fiery and full of flavor. Try adding chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce. You will feel the warmth with each bite. This variation is great for spice lovers who want a kick. If you want juicier meat, use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Chicken thighs have more fat, which keeps them moist during cooking. Just season them like you would the breasts. Cook them in the skillet for about 7-8 minutes on each side. They will soak up the flavors well and taste amazing. You can make this dish healthier with some easy swaps. For butter, use olive oil or avocado oil to cut down on saturated fat. You can also use skinless chicken breasts to reduce calories. If you want a lighter sauce, use low-sodium chicken broth. Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and flavor without extra calories. These changes keep the taste while making it better for you. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide. To keep your Cajun garlic butter chicken fresh, store it right. Place the chicken in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down first before sealing. This helps to prevent moisture buildup. You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option. When you want to reheat your chicken, do it gently. Use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Cover the skillet to trap the heat. Cook until warm, about 5-7 minutes. This keeps the chicken juicy and tasty. You can also use the microwave. But be careful not to dry it out. Heat on medium for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. Freezing Cajun garlic butter chicken is simple. Cut the chicken into smaller pieces for quicker thawing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above. You should cook Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken for about 12-14 minutes total. Start with 5-6 minutes on one side. Flip it and cook for another 5-6 minutes. The chicken must reach 165°F for safety. This ensures juicy, well-cooked chicken that keeps all the flavors inside. Yes, you can use different meats. Chicken thighs work great in this dish. You can also try pork chops or shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time. Shrimp cooks fast, about 3-4 minutes per side. Always ensure your meat is cooked through for the best taste and safety. Serve Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken with rice or roasted veggies. Steamed rice soaks up the tasty sauce well. Roasted vegetables add a nice crunch and color to your plate. You can also add a fresh salad for a light side. This combo makes your meal complete and satisfying. For the full recipe, check out the main section above. Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken is simple and tasty. We discussed key ingredients, cooking tips, and variations. I shared easy steps to prepare and cook chicken well, along with a flavorful garlic butter sauce. You can store leftovers and reheat them for great taste. Understanding these details enhances your cooking skills. With this recipe, you can impress family and friends. Enjoy creating this dish and make it your own!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a dish that’s both simple and packed with flavor? Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken is your answer! This recipe combines juicy chicken with zesty Cajun spices and rich garlic butter, creating a meal that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re a busy parent or a novice cook, I’m here to guide you step by step. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and impress your family tonight!

Jump to Recipe

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken

To make Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken, gather these main ingredients:

– 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 lemon, juiced

– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1/2 cup chicken broth

These ingredients come together for a dish full of flavor.

Recommended Seasonings and Spices

The Cajun seasoning is key in this dish. It adds warmth and depth. Smoked paprika gives a nice, smoky flavor. Garlic powder boosts the garlicky taste. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Adjust these spices to match your taste.

Suggested Fresh Herbs and Add-ons

Fresh parsley brightens up the dish. You can also add fresh thyme or oregano for more flavor. If you like heat, consider adding some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. These add-ons make the dish even more exciting. For a twist, serve with lemon slices for a zesty touch.

For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the Chicken

To start, take your chicken breasts and season them well. Use Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat both sides. Press the spices into the meat. This helps the flavors stick. Allow the chicken to sit for a few minutes. This step lets the spices soak in.

Cooking the Chicken in Skillet

Next, grab a large skillet. Melt three tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Watch for it to melt and bubble. When it is ready, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining three tablespoons of butter. Let it melt before adding minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you don’t want it to burn. Then, pour in the chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds great flavor. Squeeze in the juice of the lemon and stir everything together. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Let them simmer in the garlic butter sauce for 3-5 minutes. This helps the chicken absorb all the tasty flavors. Once heated through, sprinkle chopped parsley on top. This adds a nice touch.

For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above.

Tips & Tricks

How to Perfectly Cook Chicken Breasts

To cook chicken breasts just right, start with even thickness. If they are uneven, pound them gently with a meat mallet. This helps them cook evenly. Season both sides well with Cajun seasoning and spices. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Melt three tablespoons of butter until it bubbles. Add chicken and cook for five to six minutes per side. You want a nice golden color. Check the internal temperature. It should be 165°F. If not, cook a bit longer.

Enhancing Flavor with Additional Ingredients

To boost flavor, consider adding a touch of lemon zest. This adds freshness to the dish. You can also toss in some sliced bell peppers or onions when cooking. They add sweetness and texture. For a twist, try adding some diced tomatoes. They will bring a lovely acidity. Fresh herbs, like thyme or basil, can also enhance the flavor. Just sprinkle them in during the last few minutes of cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcrowding the skillet. If you pack too many chicken breasts in, they will steam instead of sear. This means no nice brown crust. Always give space between each piece. Another mistake is not letting the chicken rest after cooking. Let it sit for five minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices in. Lastly, don’t skip scraping the skillet. Those brown bits add tons of flavor to your sauce. If you follow these tips, your Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken will shine. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section.

Variations

Spicy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken

You can add more heat to your dish by using a spicy Cajun seasoning. This simple twist makes the chicken fiery and full of flavor. Try adding chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce. You will feel the warmth with each bite. This variation is great for spice lovers who want a kick.

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Option

If you want juicier meat, use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Chicken thighs have more fat, which keeps them moist during cooking. Just season them like you would the breasts. Cook them in the skillet for about 7-8 minutes on each side. They will soak up the flavors well and taste amazing.

Healthy Substitutions for Ingredients

You can make this dish healthier with some easy swaps. For butter, use olive oil or avocado oil to cut down on saturated fat. You can also use skinless chicken breasts to reduce calories. If you want a lighter sauce, use low-sodium chicken broth. Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and flavor without extra calories. These changes keep the taste while making it better for you.

For the full recipe, check out the complete guide.

Storage Info

Best Methods for Storing Leftovers

To keep your Cajun garlic butter chicken fresh, store it right. Place the chicken in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down first before sealing. This helps to prevent moisture buildup. You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option.

Reheating Instructions for Optimal Flavor

When you want to reheat your chicken, do it gently. Use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Cover the skillet to trap the heat. Cook until warm, about 5-7 minutes. This keeps the chicken juicy and tasty. You can also use the microwave. But be careful not to dry it out. Heat on medium for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.

Freezing Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken

Freezing Cajun garlic butter chicken is simple. Cut the chicken into smaller pieces for quicker thawing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above.

FAQs

How long to cook Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken?

You should cook Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken for about 12-14 minutes total. Start with 5-6 minutes on one side. Flip it and cook for another 5-6 minutes. The chicken must reach 165°F for safety. This ensures juicy, well-cooked chicken that keeps all the flavors inside.

Can I use different meats for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different meats. Chicken thighs work great in this dish. You can also try pork chops or shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time. Shrimp cooks fast, about 3-4 minutes per side. Always ensure your meat is cooked through for the best taste and safety.

What to serve with Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken?

Serve Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken with rice or roasted veggies. Steamed rice soaks up the tasty sauce well. Roasted vegetables add a nice crunch and color to your plate. You can also add a fresh salad for a light side. This combo makes your meal complete and satisfying. For the full recipe, check out the main section above.

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken is simple and tasty. We discussed key ingredients, cooking tips, and variations. I shared easy steps to prepare and cook chicken well, along with a flavorful garlic butter sauce. You can store leftovers and reheat them for great taste.

Understanding these details enhances your cooking skills. With this recipe, you can impress family and friends. Enjoy creating this dish and make it your own!

To make Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken, gather these main ingredients: - 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 lemon, juiced - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup chicken broth These ingredients come together for a dish full of flavor. The Cajun seasoning is key in this dish. It adds warmth and depth. Smoked paprika gives a nice, smoky flavor. Garlic powder boosts the garlicky taste. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Adjust these spices to match your taste. Fresh parsley brightens up the dish. You can also add fresh thyme or oregano for more flavor. If you like heat, consider adding some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. These add-ons make the dish even more exciting. For a twist, serve with lemon slices for a zesty touch. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. To start, take your chicken breasts and season them well. Use Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat both sides. Press the spices into the meat. This helps the flavors stick. Allow the chicken to sit for a few minutes. This step lets the spices soak in. Next, grab a large skillet. Melt three tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Watch for it to melt and bubble. When it is ready, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining three tablespoons of butter. Let it melt before adding minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you don’t want it to burn. Then, pour in the chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds great flavor. Squeeze in the juice of the lemon and stir everything together. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Let them simmer in the garlic butter sauce for 3-5 minutes. This helps the chicken absorb all the tasty flavors. Once heated through, sprinkle chopped parsley on top. This adds a nice touch. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. To cook chicken breasts just right, start with even thickness. If they are uneven, pound them gently with a meat mallet. This helps them cook evenly. Season both sides well with Cajun seasoning and spices. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Melt three tablespoons of butter until it bubbles. Add chicken and cook for five to six minutes per side. You want a nice golden color. Check the internal temperature. It should be 165°F. If not, cook a bit longer. To boost flavor, consider adding a touch of lemon zest. This adds freshness to the dish. You can also toss in some sliced bell peppers or onions when cooking. They add sweetness and texture. For a twist, try adding some diced tomatoes. They will bring a lovely acidity. Fresh herbs, like thyme or basil, can also enhance the flavor. Just sprinkle them in during the last few minutes of cooking. One common mistake is overcrowding the skillet. If you pack too many chicken breasts in, they will steam instead of sear. This means no nice brown crust. Always give space between each piece. Another mistake is not letting the chicken rest after cooking. Let it sit for five minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices in. Lastly, don’t skip scraping the skillet. Those brown bits add tons of flavor to your sauce. If you follow these tips, your Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken will shine. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. {{image_2}} You can add more heat to your dish by using a spicy Cajun seasoning. This simple twist makes the chicken fiery and full of flavor. Try adding chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce. You will feel the warmth with each bite. This variation is great for spice lovers who want a kick. If you want juicier meat, use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Chicken thighs have more fat, which keeps them moist during cooking. Just season them like you would the breasts. Cook them in the skillet for about 7-8 minutes on each side. They will soak up the flavors well and taste amazing. You can make this dish healthier with some easy swaps. For butter, use olive oil or avocado oil to cut down on saturated fat. You can also use skinless chicken breasts to reduce calories. If you want a lighter sauce, use low-sodium chicken broth. Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and flavor without extra calories. These changes keep the taste while making it better for you. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide. To keep your Cajun garlic butter chicken fresh, store it right. Place the chicken in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down first before sealing. This helps to prevent moisture buildup. You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option. When you want to reheat your chicken, do it gently. Use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Cover the skillet to trap the heat. Cook until warm, about 5-7 minutes. This keeps the chicken juicy and tasty. You can also use the microwave. But be careful not to dry it out. Heat on medium for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. Freezing Cajun garlic butter chicken is simple. Cut the chicken into smaller pieces for quicker thawing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above. You should cook Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken for about 12-14 minutes total. Start with 5-6 minutes on one side. Flip it and cook for another 5-6 minutes. The chicken must reach 165°F for safety. This ensures juicy, well-cooked chicken that keeps all the flavors inside. Yes, you can use different meats. Chicken thighs work great in this dish. You can also try pork chops or shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time. Shrimp cooks fast, about 3-4 minutes per side. Always ensure your meat is cooked through for the best taste and safety. Serve Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken with rice or roasted veggies. Steamed rice soaks up the tasty sauce well. Roasted vegetables add a nice crunch and color to your plate. You can also add a fresh salad for a light side. This combo makes your meal complete and satisfying. For the full recipe, check out the main section above. Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken is simple and tasty. We discussed key ingredients, cooking tips, and variations. I shared easy steps to prepare and cook chicken well, along with a flavorful garlic butter sauce. You can store leftovers and reheat them for great taste. Understanding these details enhances your cooking skills. With this recipe, you can impress family and friends. Enjoy creating this dish and make it your own!

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken

Indulge in a mouthwatering meal with Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken that's bursting with flavor! This easy recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with rich garlic butter and zesty lemon for a dish that’s sure to impress. Ready in just 25 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Discover how simple it is to create this delicious recipe, and click through to explore the full instructions and presentation tips!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 lemon, juiced

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions
 

Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides, pressing the spices into the meat.

    In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once melted and bubbling, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken breasts and set aside on a plate.

      In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).

        Add the chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Squeeze in the juice of the lemon and stir to combine.

          Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, allowing them to simmer in the garlic butter sauce for an additional 3-5 minutes to absorb the flavors.

            Once the chicken is coated well and heated through, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for garnish.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the chicken breasts drizzled with the garlic butter sauce, alongside a bed of steamed rice or roasted vegetables. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon slices for added color.

                  WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?