Description
Spicy Cajun chicken with bell peppers showcases Louisiana’s bold culinary heritage. Pepper-packed protein dances with zesty seasonings, promising a meal that delights senses and satisfies hunger.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken breasts (small)
- 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese (cold, sliced into 8 pieces)
- ½ cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 2 bell peppers (small, or mini sweet peppers, thinly sliced)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- ¼ tsp oregano
- ¼ tsp thyme
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Seasoning Preparation: Whisk paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, and salt in a mixing bowl until evenly combined, creating a robust Cajun spice blend.
- Oven Preheation: Calibrate oven to 375°F, positioning rack centrally to ensure uniform heat distribution.
- Vegetable Foundation: Layer bell pepper slices across the entire casserole dish base, creating a colorful and flavorful platform for the chicken.
- Protein Placement and Seasoning: Position chicken breasts over peppers, generously coating with prepared Cajun seasoning and sprinkled minced garlic for enhanced aromatics.
- Cheese Enhancement: Strategically place cream cheese slices atop each chicken breast, followed by a lavish covering of shredded cheddar, forming a luxurious melted cheese crust.
- Roasting Process: Slide dish into preheated oven, roasting uncovered for approximately 25 minutes until chicken reaches a safe 165°F internal temperature.
- Optional Finishing: Activate broiler for 2 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy exterior, monitoring closely to prevent scorching.
- Plating and Presentation: Artfully arrange roasted bell peppers around and over the chicken, creating a visually appealing and appetizing dish.
Notes
- Customize Spice Level: Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to match your heat tolerance, from mild to fiery hot.
- Cheese Melting Tip: Let cream cheese and cheddar slightly overlap edges for maximum melt and coverage.
- Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to guarantee chicken reaches exact 165°F for food safety.
- Pepper Selection: Choose colorful bell peppers (red, yellow, green) for visual appeal and varied flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg