Get ready to transform your ordinary chicken dinner into a flavor explosion that'll have everyone asking for seconds! This Baked Cajun Chicken Breast isn't just another recipe – it's a culinary adventure that brings the bold, zesty spirit of Louisiana right to your dinner table. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a ceramic baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry using paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes a crispy exterior.
- In a small bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning with salt to create a uniform spice blend.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This helps the seasoning stick and adds moisture.
- Generously sprinkle the Cajun seasoning mixture over both sides of each chicken breast, massaging the spices into the meat to create an even coating.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other to allow even heat circulation.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Slice and serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
Tips
- • Always pat your chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, flavorful exterior. • Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken – 165°F is the magic number for food safety and juicy meat. • Don't overcrowd the baking sheet; give each chicken breast space to ensure even cooking and crispy edges. • For extra moisture, consider brining your chicken breasts for 30 minutes before seasoning. • If you like extra heat, adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preference or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. • Let the chicken rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and succulent. • For meal prep, these Cajun chicken breasts can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and are perfect for salads, sandwiches, or quick weeknight meals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
