Description
This One Pan Cajun Lime Chicken recipe features juicy chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of Cajun spices, lime juice, and garlic, then seared and baked alongside sautéed bell peppers and onions. The dish is vibrant, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 lime
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 red onion (sliced)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, and minced garlic. Rub this marinade all over the chicken breasts, ensuring even coverage. Let the chicken sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours for more intense taste.
- Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or pan over medium-high heat until hot, preparing it for searing the chicken.
- Sear the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts in the hot pan and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the chicken from the pan temporarily and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the sliced red and green bell peppers along with the red onion. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and release their aroma.
- Combine and Bake: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the pan among the cooked vegetables. Drizzle honey over the chicken if using, to add a subtle sweetness. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), indicating it is fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of fresh flavor. Serve the dish hot, paired with rice, quinoa, or a green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is safely cooked.
- Honey is optional but adds a nice balance to the Cajun spices.
- Swap out bell peppers for your favorite vegetables as desired.
- Ensure your skillet is oven-safe before transferring to the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus up to 2 hours marinating time)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Keywords: Cajun chicken, lime chicken, one pan meal, easy chicken recipe, healthy chicken dinner, baked chicken with vegetables
