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This creamy Cajun chicken and potatoes dish is a fantastic weeknight meal that brings bold flavors and creamy comfort together in one pan. The juicy chicken breasts coated with Cajun spices pair perfectly with tender air-fried potatoes all combined in a rich, creamy sauce that’s simple to prepare yet impressive on the plate.
Ingredients
- Diced Potatoes: these hold their shape well and crisp up nicely especially when air-fried.
- Olive Oil: helps create that golden crust on potatoes and chicken.
- Seasoned Salt: adds extra depth to potatoes.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: lean and versatile, pound to even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Cajun Seasoning: the key for delivering bold spicy flavor, look for a blend that includes smoked paprika and garlic powder.
- Onion Powder: enhances the savory notes in the chicken.
- Garlic Powder: essential for that warm earthy undertone.
- Paprika: opt for smoked if you want extra depth and smokiness.
- Butter: enriches the creamy sauce with a silky texture.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: creates the luscious base for the sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: melts into the sauce giving it a nutty umami flavor.
- Salt and Black Pepper: balance and enhance all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Potatoes:
- Start by rinsing the diced potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch which helps them crisp up better. Pat dry thoroughly to avoid sogginess. Toss the potatoes with olive oil and seasoned salt making sure each piece is coated evenly. Air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes, shaking or stirring them occasionally for even cooking until they are golden and tender on the inside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 7 to 8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The outside should be golden and slightly crisp. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Create the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and melt the butter in the same skillet leaving behind all those flavorful browned bits. Pour in the heavy whipping cream and add the Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly as the mixture comes to a gentle simmer so the cheese melts smoothly into a thick sauce. Sprinkle a pinch more Cajun seasoning and paprika to intensify the flavors. Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked chicken and crispy air-fried potatoes to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated in the rich sauce. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the creamy, spicy, and tender combination that makes this dish a winner every time.
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Storage tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For best texture, reheat the chicken and potatoes separately in a skillet or air fryer to preserve the crispiness of the potatoes and juiciness of the chicken. Avoid microwaving if possible as this can make the potatoes soggy.
Ingredient substitutions
Chicken thighs work beautifully for this recipe and give a bit more fat and flavor if you prefer dark meat. You can swap heavy cream for half and half or whole milk but the sauce will be less thick and rich. Instead of air-frying potatoes, roasting them in the oven at 425 degrees Fahrenheit with olive oil works just as well.
Serving suggestions
Serve with a simple green salad or steamed veggies to cut through the richness of the sauce. For a fun southern twist, add some collard greens or sautéed green beans on the side. This dish also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Cultural context
Cajun cuisine originates from the Acadian settlers in Louisiana and is known for its bold use of spices and hearty ingredients. This recipe takes inspiration from classic Cajun seasoning blends and combines it with a creamy sauce to create a comforting yet flavorful meal that’s easy enough for any home cook.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute chicken thighs for the breasts?
Absolutely, chicken thighs offer a juicier texture and richer flavor, and they cook well with the Cajun spices used in this dish.
- → How can I adjust the heat to be milder?
Reduce the cayenne pepper and smoked paprika in the seasoning mix to tone down the spice while keeping the smoky depth.
- → What are the best potatoes to use?
Firm, starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or russets hold up well during air-frying and absorb the seasoning nicely.
- → Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, bell peppers, mushrooms, or sundried tomatoes can be included for added texture and flavor variety.
- → How do I store leftovers to maintain flavor?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days; reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.