Description

This One Pan Cajun Lime Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of Cajun seasoning, lime, and garlic, then seared and baked alongside vibrant bell peppers and red onion. Quick and easy to prepare, this flavorful dish offers a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and sweet notes, making it a delicious weeknight meal served with your favorite grains or salad.

Ingredients

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Chicken and Marinade

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil (for marinade)
2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
Zest of 1 lime
3 cloves garlic (minced)

Vegetables and Additional Ingredients

1 red bell pepper (sliced)
1 green bell pepper (sliced)
1 red onion (sliced)
1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

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Instructions

Prepare the marinade and marinate chicken: In a small bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, and minced garlic. Rub this mixture over the chicken breasts thoroughly. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
Preheat oven and heat skillet: Set 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.
Sear the chicken: Place marinated chicken breasts in the hot skillet and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside temporarily.
Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced red and green bell peppers along with the sliced red onion. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Bake chicken with vegetables: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the pan among the sautéed vegetables. Drizzle the mixture with honey if using, for a hint of sweetness. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), ensuring it is fully cooked.
Garnish and serve: Remove the pan from the oven. Garnish the chicken and vegetables with freshly chopped cilantro and extra lime wedges for added zest. Serve hot alongside rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.

Notes

Marinating the chicken longer (up to 2 hours) will intensify the flavors.
For a spicier dish, add extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Honey is optional but adds a nice balance to the heat of the Cajun spices.
Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
You can substitute bell peppers and onions with other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms if desired.