Bursting with bold Southern flavors, this Cajun Chicken and Okra dish is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. The tender chicken is seasoned with a rich blend of Cajun spices and cooked to perfection alongside fresh okra, bell peppers, and onions, creating a dish that’s both vibrant and comforting. With its smoky, spicy undertones and robust taste, this one-pot wonder captures the essence of Louisiana cuisine, making it a crowd-pleaser for lovers of Creole cooking.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound fresh okra, trimmed and sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked rice or cornbread, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onion, bell peppers, and garlic until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add the okra: Stir in the sliced okra and cook for an additional 4–5 minutes, allowing the okra to release its juices and reduce its stickiness.
- Combine with tomatoes and broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer and finish: Return the chicken to the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let everything simmer together for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors meld.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve over steamed rice or alongside cornbread for a complete Cajun-inspired meal.
Enjoy this soulful dish that brings the taste of the bayou to your kitchen!
