Bookmark
This Cajun-stuffed chicken is perfect for turning a simple chicken dinner into something exciting and full of flavor. Stuffed with tender peppers and melty cheese, the spiced chicken is both satisfying and straightforward to make. It fits well into busy weeknights when you want something tasty without waiting too long.
I made this for the first time when craving a hearty dinner but short on time. Now it’s a staple that always impresses my family without much fuss.
Ingredients
- Extra-virgin olive oil: adding richness and helping soften the vegetables choose a good quality bottle for the best taste
- Medium onion: diced for natural sweetness and texture look for firm, unblemished onions
- Red and green bell peppers: diced bringing color and a mild crispness pick bright, firm peppers without soft spots
- Kosher salt: seasoning all components evenly it dissolves well and enhances the flavors
- Freshly ground black pepper: adding a fresh, sharp bite grind just before use for maximum flavor
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: as the perfect canvas for stuffing aim for even thickness to ensure even cooking
- Shredded cheddar cheese: for melty creaminess inside opt for a sharp or mild cheddar based on your preference
- Cajun seasoning: with a balance of smoky, spicy flavors making your own allows you to adjust heat and keep it fresh
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell peppers then cook for about five minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Season lightly with salt and pepper to build the flavor. Remove the skillet from heat and let the vegetables cool just a bit before stuffing.
- Prepare and Stuff the Chicken:
- Use a sharp paring knife to carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Stuff these pockets generously with the sautéed vegetables, then top the filling with shredded cheddar cheese. Season each chicken breast all over with Cajun seasoning followed by salt and pepper to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts back into your skillet or a baking dish if needed. Slide this into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through, juicy on the inside, and slightly crisp on the outside.
Bookmark
One of my favorite parts about this recipe is the Cajun seasoning blend. I make it ahead and it elevates not just this chicken but many other dishes in my kitchen. This meal started as a way to change up chicken breasts, but it quickly became something my whole family requests regularly, especially on busy nights when comfort food is key.
Storage Tips
Store your leftovers in a sealed container and refrigerate promptly to keep chicken moist and flavorful for up to four days. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven to avoid drying out the meat. For longer storage, freeze uncooked stuffed chicken for up to three months and bake from frozen adding extra cooking time.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have cheddar, mozzarella or pepper jack work well for a melty texture and mild to spicy flavor. You can substitute bell peppers with diced zucchini or mushrooms for variation. Use store-bought Cajun seasoning if you’re pressed for time but tweak the amount according to your spice tolerance.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this chicken with a simple side of steamed rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful juices. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables complement the rich stuffing beautifully. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon over the top before serving for brightness.
Pro Tips
- Make sure not to overstuff the chicken breast pockets as this can cause uneven cooking or tearing
- Toast your Cajun spices in a dry pan before mixing them for a deeper, more complex flavor
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety
Common Recipe Questions
- → What peppers are best for stuffing?
Red and green bell peppers work wonderfully as they add sweetness and a mild crunch without overpowering the dish.
- → Can I prepare Cajun seasoning at home?
Yes, combining paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs creates a vibrant Cajun spice blend that enhances the chicken.
- → How do I avoid over-stuffing the chicken breasts?
Use a sharp knife to create a moderate pocket and fill it without pressing too tightly, allowing even cooking and preventing spillage.
- → Is extra-virgin olive oil the best choice for sautéing?
Extra-virgin olive oil adds a subtle fruity flavor and withstands medium heat well, complementing the veggies perfectly.
- → Can leftovers be reheated safely?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, these leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave without losing moisture.