Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning for this one pan Cajun chicken dinner?

Yes, you can use store-bought Cajun seasoning for convenience. Just keep in mind that the heat level and flavor can vary between brands. If you want more control over the spiciness, making your own Cajun seasoning blend lets you customize the amounts of paprika, cayenne pepper, and herbs. You can also prepare a large batch of homemade seasoning to have ready for future meals, simplifying the process without sacrificing flavor.

Is it possible to use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely. Chicken breasts can be used, but you may need to adjust cooking times. For even cooking, pound the breasts to a uniform thickness. Since chicken breasts don’t release as much fat as thighs, consider roasting the potatoes for about 20 minutes before adding the breasts, which usually cook in around 25 minutes. You might also want to add extra olive oil to keep the veggies from drying out.

How spicy is this Cajun chicken dinner, and can I adjust the heat level?

This dish has a noticeable spice kick, thanks to the Cajun seasoning. However, the heat level is fully adjustable. For less spice, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper or use less seasoning overall. To make it spicier, increase the Cajun seasoning or add extra cayenne. The seasoning blend can be tailored to your personal preference, making this dish suitable for a wide range of taste buds.

What vegetables work best in a one pan Cajun chicken dinner?

Potatoes and bell peppers are classic choices because they roast well and complement the spices. You can also add onions, zucchini, or carrots for more variety and color. Aim for vegetables that cook at similar rates to the chicken to ensure an evenly cooked meal. Cutting veggies into uniform pieces helps them roast evenly alongside the chicken.

Can this recipe be prepared ahead of time or frozen for later?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables with seasoning ahead of time and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. For freezing, fully cooked portions can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently to avoid drying out the chicken. Freezing raw seasoned ingredients together is not recommended as the texture of potatoes may change.

One Pan Cajun Chicken Dinner With Roasted Vegetables 2024

Name: One Pan Cajun Chicken Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: – 5 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (approximately 2 1/2 pounds); – 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, diced into 1-inch pieces; – 1 bell pepper, diced into 1-inch pieces; – 1/2 red onion, diced into 1-inch pieces; – 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided throughout the cooking process; – 2 1/2 teaspoons paprika for the Cajun seasoning; – 2 teaspoons garlic powder for the Cajun seasoning; – 2 teaspoons salt for the Cajun seasoning; – 1 1/4 teaspoons dried oregano for the Cajun seasoning; – 1 1/4 teaspoons dried thyme for the Cajun seasoning; – 1 teaspoon onion powder for the Cajun seasoning; – 1 teaspoon black pepper for the Cajun seasoning; – 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, adjusted to taste for the Cajun seasoning; – Fresh parsley optional, for garnish

Description

🔥 Experience bold, smoky flavors in this One Pan Cajun Chicken with Roasted Vegetables, perfect for an easy and satisfying meal.
🍲 Combining tender chicken thighs with seasoned potatoes and veggies, this dish delivers a balanced, hearty dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

– 5 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (approximately 2 1/2 pounds)

– 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, diced into 1-inch pieces

– 1 bell pepper, diced into 1-inch pieces

– 1/2 red onion, diced into 1-inch pieces

– 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided throughout the cooking process

– 2 1/2 teaspoons paprika for the Cajun seasoning

– 2 teaspoons garlic powder for the Cajun seasoning

– 2 teaspoons salt for the Cajun seasoning

– 1 1/4 teaspoons dried oregano for the Cajun seasoning

– 1 1/4 teaspoons dried thyme for the Cajun seasoning

– 1 teaspoon onion powder for the Cajun seasoning

– 1 teaspoon black pepper for the Cajun seasoning

– 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, adjusted to taste for the Cajun seasoning

– Fresh parsley optional, for garnish

Instructions

1-Getting started with this One Pan Cajun Chicken Dinner is straightforward and fun, even if you’re new to cooking. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F to ensure everything cooks evenly and develops that tasty roast. Pat the 5 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs dry and rub them with the homemade Cajun seasoning for maximum flavor absorption.

2-Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe pan over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs for about 4-5 minutes per side until they turn golden, locking in juices and adding crispiness. While that’s happening, toss the 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, 1 bell pepper, and 1/2 red onion all diced into 1-inch pieces with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and a bit more seasoning.

3-After searing, remove the chicken briefly and add the vegetable mix to the pan, stirring to coat everything well. Place the chicken back on top and pop the pan into the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F and the veggies are tender. Let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley if you like, for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

🌶️ Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level for personal preference.
🥔 Cut vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even roasting.
🍽️ Use a rimmed baking sheet for easy cleanup and to contain any juices.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with vegetables
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 720 mg
Fat: 26 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 32 g
Cholesterol: 120 mg

Keywords: One Pan, Cajun Chicken, Roasted Vegetables, Easy Dinner