If you crave a tasty dinner, these creamy garlic herb Cajun chicken thighs are perfect! Juicy chicken thighs are cooked with zesty Cajun spices, then covered in a luscious cream sauce.
I can’t resist the blend of flavors! The creaminess mixed with spices is just a hug for your taste buds. Pair it with rice or veggies for a simple meal that feels fancy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Skinless boneless chicken thighs are great for this recipe as they stay moist and tender. If you prefer white meat, boneless chicken breasts can work too, but they may dry out a bit. A good cut of pork can also be a fun alternative!
Cajun Seasoning: This blend adds fantastic flavor. If you’re short on time, store-bought seasoning works well. You can also make your own using paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and herbs. Adjust the spice level to your liking!
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream makes the sauce rich, you can use half-and-half or milk with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it. For dairy-free options, coconut cream or cashew cream can provide a similar creaminess.
Diced Onion and Green Bell Pepper: These add flavor and color. You can swap out the green bell pepper for red or yellow ones for sweetness or even leave it out if you’re not a fan. Alternatively, use other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Golden Brown?
Cooking chicken thighs properly can be tricky, but it’s all about heat and time. To get that beautiful golden brown, follow these steps:
- Preheat your skillet with both olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. This combo adds flavor and helps achieve the right sear.
- When adding chicken, make sure the skillet is hot before you place them in. This prevents sticking and ensures a nice crust.
- Let the chicken cook without moving it for 6-7 minutes per side. Resist the urge to flip early — a good sear is vital!
- Check for doneness by cutting into a thigh or using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C) in the center.
Creamy Garlic Herb Cajun Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready and then around 20 minutes cooking the chicken and making the creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken thighs with Cajun seasoning. Make sure they are well-coated for that flavorful kick!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs. Sear them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for an additional minute until it’s fragrant—your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine everything. Next, sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, and add salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer; this is where the magic happens!
5. Combine the Chicken with the Sauce:
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb all those delicious flavors.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the chicken is heated through, take it off the heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm with rice or pasta to soak up that wonderful creamy sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While skinless, boneless chicken thighs work best for their tenderness and flavor, you can substitute them with chicken breasts or even drumsticks. Just adjust cooking times: breasts typically cook faster, around 5-6 minutes per side, while drumsticks may require a few extra minutes. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter. To make one cup of a cream alternative, combine 3/4 cup of milk with 1/4 cup of melted butter. This will still give you a creamy texture, though it might be slightly less rich!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Of course! If you like more heat, you can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. For an even bolder kick, consider adding diced jalapeños along with the bell pepper. Adjust to your taste preferences!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. The sauce may thicken after refrigeration; if so, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
