Ask Cookix, your sous-chef

Cajun-Style Creamy Chicken Skillet

This Cajun-inspired creamy chicken dish, often referred to as 'Poulet à la Crème Cajun' in Louisiana, is a rich and flavorful meal that brings together bold spices and velvety textures. Rooted in the culinary traditions of the American South, Cajun cuisine is known for its robust seasoning and comforting sauces. This dish embodies those characteristics, featuring tender, seared chicken breasts enveloped in a luscious tomato-cream sauce infused with garlic, lime, and Cajun spices. The balance of heat, acidity, and creaminess makes it a standout meal, perfect for a cozy dinner or a special gathering. Serve it with rice, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Main | Cajun | Egg-Free | Gluten-Free | Nut-Free | Shellfish-Free | Soy-Free | Poultry Dish | Frying Pan | Oven | Chicken | Cream Cheese | Garlic | Heavy Cream | Lime | Tomato | Baking | Sautéing | Searing | Simmering | Comfort Food | Quick
Time to complete

Prep

10min

Cook

25min

Wait

0 minutes

Total

35min

Ingredients (Makes 4 servings)

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (8 oz each)
  • 1½ tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter (or more olive oil)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • ¾ cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp sea salt, to taste
  • ½ tsp black pepper, to taste

For Serving/Garnishing

  • Lime wedges (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro (optional)
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 180
  • Fat: 12
  • Protein: 15
  • Carbohydrates: 6
  • Fiber: 1
Directions

Preparing the Chicken

  • 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
  • 2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
  • 3. Season the chicken on both sides with Cajun seasoning.

Searing and Baking the Chicken

  • 4. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe pan over medium-high heat.
  • 5. Add the chicken and sear for 5 minutes per side.
  • 6. Transfer the pan to the oven and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • 7. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Making the Sauce

  • 8. To the same pan, add the butter and let it melt over medium-high heat.
  • 9. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  • 10. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
  • 11. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  • 12. Increase heat to bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce to medium and simmer for 5 minutes.

Finishing the Sauce

  • 13. Add the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  • 14. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted. (You can add more if you want the sauce thicker.)
  • 15. Stir in the lime juice.
  • 16. Season the sauce with sea salt and black pepper to taste.

Serving

  • 17. Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the sauce over it.
  • 18. Garnish with lime wedges and fresh cilantro.
Cookix's Secrets

Alternative Cooking Methods

  • Grill the chicken instead of pan-searing for a smoky flavor.

Alternative Proteins

  • Substitute chicken with shrimp or firm tofu for a different protein option.

Bold Flavor Enhancements

  • Add smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a deeper, smoky taste.

Cooking Tips

  • For extra depth of flavor, let the chicken marinate in Cajun seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Healthier Variation

  • Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.

Seasonal Tweaks

  • Use fresh summer tomatoes instead of canned for a brighter flavor.

Serving Tips

  • Pair with rice or roasted vegetables to complement the creamy sauce.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.