Welcome to your new go-to recipe for a truly unforgettable weeknight meal: the **Cajun Chicken and Sausage Skillet**. This vibrant and flavorful dish is a testament to the rich, robust tastes of Louisiana cuisine, brought to your kitchen in a remarkably simple and speedy format. Forget complicated cooking processes; this recipe emphasizes fresh ingredients, bold seasonings, and a one-pan approach that will have dinner on the table in just 20 minutes. It’s the perfect solution for busy evenings, yet boasts a depth of flavor that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
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Originally published in 2018, this beloved recipe has been thoroughly updated and refined to ensure it remains a family favorite, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort. Its appeal lies in its simplicity: a quick chop of fresh vegetables, a generous drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of authentic Cajun spices, and everything comes together harmoniously in a single skillet. The result is a savory, satisfying dish that rivals a classic stir-fry in ease but transports your taste buds straight to the heart of the Bayou.
Table of Contents
Why This Cajun Skillet Will Become a Family Favorite
Beyond its incredibly quick preparation time, this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Skillet offers a symphony of flavors that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the lively spirit of Cajun cooking to your dinner table. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- **Effortless & Fast:** True to its 20-minute promise, this skillet meal minimizes chopping, prep, and clean-up, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights when time is a luxury.
- **Flavor-Packed:** Cajun seasoning, combined with savory andouille sausage and fresh vegetables, creates a harmonious blend of smoky, spicy, and earthy notes that are deeply satisfying.
- **Customizable & Versatile:** Easily adapt the spice level, swap in different proteins, or incorporate your favorite vegetables to make it uniquely yours. It’s perfect for using up whatever you have on hand.
- **Meal Prep Dream:** Cook a larger batch and portion it out for healthy, flavorful lunches or dinners throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, making your meal prep routine a breeze.
- **Nutritious & Wholesome:** Loaded with lean protein and a colorful array of vegetables, this dish is a balanced meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or health.
Key Recipe Ingredients for an Authentic Cajun Experience
The soul of any authentic Cajun dish lies in what’s known as “The Holy Trinity” of vegetables: onion, bell pepper, and celery. These three humble ingredients form the aromatic base for countless Cajun and Creole masterpieces, providing a depth of flavor that is truly indispensable. While traditional recipes often call for white onions, I’ve opted for red onions in this skillet to add a beautiful pop of color and a slightly sharper, sweeter edge. Feel free to use whatever onion variety you prefer or have available.
- Chicken (boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for quick cooking)
- Andouille Sausage (the quintessential Cajun sausage, known for its smoky, spicy flavor)
- Green Bell Peppers (a cornerstone of the Holy Trinity)
- Celery (essential for the aromatic foundation)
- Onions (red, white, or yellow onions all work wonderfully)
- Red Bell Peppers (adds sweetness and color)
- Squash (such as zucchini or yellow squash, for added freshness and texture)
- Olive Oil (for sautéing and seasoning)
- Cajun Seasoning (the star spice blend)
- Thyme (a classic herb that complements Cajun flavors)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- Cayenne Pepper (optional, for an extra kick)
While andouille sausage is highly recommended for its authentic flavor profile, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. Don’t hesitate to substitute it with other smoked sausages like chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a crispy bacon for a different twist. If you’re aiming for a vegetarian option, simply omit the sausage and perhaps add extra vegetables or plant-based protein for a hearty meal.
Choosing Your Chicken: Breasts vs. Thighs
When it comes to selecting the chicken for your skillet, boneless, skinless cuts are always the best choice for this quick-cooking method. You have two primary options, each offering slightly different characteristics:
- **Chicken Breasts:** These are a lean protein source, offering a firmer texture and milder flavor. They cook quickly and are excellent for those watching their fat intake. Ensure they are cut into even, bite-sized pieces to prevent overcooking and keep them tender.
- **Chicken Thighs:** For a juicier, more succulent result, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative. Their slightly higher fat content keeps them moist and flavorful, even if cooked for a minute or two longer. They also tend to absorb the seasoning wonderfully.
Regardless of your choice, ensure the chicken is cut into uniform ½ to 1-inch pieces. This consistency is crucial for even cooking, allowing every piece to reach perfect tenderness simultaneously and soak up all the delicious Cajun flavors.
Selecting the Perfect Sausage: Andouille and Beyond
The true star of the “sausage” portion of this dish is undoubtedly andouille sausage. A staple in authentic Cajun and Creole recipes, andouille is a smoked pork sausage characterized by its coarse texture, rich smoky flavor, and often a pleasant kick of spice. It’s this unique profile that contributes significantly to the robust taste of the skillet. When shopping, you might find it labeled simply as “Cajun sausage,” which will work just as well.
If you can’t find andouille, or if you prefer a different flavor, consider these alternatives:
- **Smoked Sausage:** A general smoked sausage (pork or beef) can provide a similar smoky base, though it might lack the specific spice blend of andouille.
- **Chicken or Turkey Sausage:** For a lighter option, chicken or turkey sausages (especially those with a savory or slightly spicy profile) can be excellent substitutes.
- **Chorizo:** If you enjoy a more intense spice and robust flavor, some varieties of chorizo can lend a fantastic, albeit different, dimension to the dish.
The key is to select a pre-cooked smoked sausage that can be quickly browned and integrated into the skillet, infusing the entire dish with its savory essence.
Crafting Your Cajun Chicken and Sausage Skillet: Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe truly exemplifies quick and easy cooking, allowing you to create a gourmet-tasting meal with minimal fuss. The detailed measurements and full instructions are provided in the comprehensive recipe card at the bottom of this post. Here’s an overview of the straightforward process:
- **Prepare and Season:** Begin by dicing your chicken and sausage into uniform, bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the chicken and sausage, then drizzle with half of the olive oil and season generously with your chosen Cajun spices. In a separate bowl, toss all the chopped vegetables with the remaining olive oil and seasonings. This ensures everything is perfectly coated and ready for the skillet.
- **Heat Your Skillet:** Place a large skillet, preferably cast iron or a heavy-bottomed pan, over medium-high heat. Allow it to get nice and hot before adding your ingredients; this is key for achieving that desirable sear and quick cooking.
- **Sear the Proteins:** Add the seasoned chicken and sausage to the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and the sausage begins to brown and release its aromatic oils. Remove the cooked proteins from the skillet and set them aside.
- **Sauté the Vegetables:** With the skillet still hot, add the seasoned chopped vegetables. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they begin to soften and develop a tender-crisp texture. You want them cooked but still with a bit of bite.
- **Combine and Finish:** Return the cooked chicken and sausage to the skillet with the softened vegetables. Toss everything together thoroughly, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to heat through for another minute or two.
- **Serve Hot:** Your delicious Cajun Chicken and Sausage Skillet is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve immediately as a standalone meal or with your favorite side dishes.
Cajun vs. Creole Seasoning: Understanding the Flavor Profiles
The spice blend you choose is fundamental to the authentic taste of this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Skillet. While often used interchangeably, Cajun and Creole seasonings have distinct characteristics that can impact the final flavor and heat level of your dish.
Cajun seasoning is typically robust and quite spicy, with a strong emphasis on various peppers, including white pepper, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, along with paprika and garlic powder. It’s designed to deliver a fiery kick and bold, earthy flavors, making it perfect for those who love a good heat. If you’re a fan of a spicier experience, this is the blend for you.
On the other hand, Creole seasoning tends to be milder and more herbaceous. It still contains peppers but often balances them with a richer blend of herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. This gives Creole seasoning a more complex, nuanced flavor profile that is less about raw heat and more about aromatic depth. If you prefer a less intense spice level, Creole seasoning might be a better choice. To infuse some extra warmth into your dish while using Creole seasoning, you can easily add a teaspoon or more of red cayenne pepper, adjusting to your personal preference for heat.
Experiment with both to discover which blend best suits your palate, or even create your own custom mix!
Storage and Meal Prep Tips for Your Skillet Dish
One of the many benefits of this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Skillet is how well it holds up for meal prepping and leftovers. Properly stored, it maintains its delicious flavor and texture for several days, making it an excellent choice for planning ahead.
To store leftovers, allow the skillet to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer the entire dish or individual portions into an airtight container. This helps to prevent spoilage and keeps the flavors fresh. Store the sealed containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can use a microwave for quick meals or gently warm it in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Freezer-Friendly Solutions for Future Meals
This Cajun Chicken and Sausage Skillet also shines as a freezer-friendly meal, offering a convenient option for busy days when cooking from scratch isn’t possible. You can easily prepare a larger batch and freeze portions for quick, wholesome meals down the line.
To freeze, ensure the cooked skillet dish has cooled completely. Divide it into individual or family-sized portions, and transfer them to freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The dish can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer the frozen portion to the refrigerator to defrost overnight. Once thawed, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until thoroughly warm. This makes for an incredibly convenient and delicious ready-made meal.
Perfect Side Dishes to Complement Your Cajun Skillet
While the Cajun Chicken and Sausage Skillet is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a delicious side can elevate the dining experience. Here are some fantastic options that beautifully complement the robust flavors of this dish:
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Garlic: The slightly bitter and caramelized notes of roasted Brussels sprouts offer a wonderful contrast to the savory and spicy skillet.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Creamy and subtly sweet, mashed sweet potatoes provide a comforting balance to the rich and spicy flavors, perfect for soaking up any delicious juices.
- Roasted Ranch Potatoes: Crispy, seasoned roasted potatoes add a satisfying texture and a familiar, comforting flavor that pairs well with almost anything.
- Creamy Ranch Mashed Potatoes: For an extra layer of flavor, creamy mashed potatoes infused with ranch seasoning are a delightful and rich accompaniment.
- Bow Tie Pasta Salad: A light and refreshing pasta salad can cut through the richness of the skillet, offering a cool and zesty counterpoint.
Explore More Delicious Cajun Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the vibrant flavors of this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Skillet, you’re in for a treat! Cajun cuisine is a world of incredible tastes, from spicy seafood to hearty stews. Here are more recipes that capture the essence of Louisiana cooking, perfect for expanding your culinary repertoire:
- Cajun Shrimp Pasta: A creamy, spicy pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp and bold Cajun seasoning.
- Cajun New Orleans Shrimp and Grits: A classic Southern comfort food, elevated with rich Cajun spices and tender shrimp.
- Cajun Spiced Roasted Turkey: Perfect for holidays or a special meal, this turkey is infused with a fragrant Cajun spice blend for an unforgettable roast.
- Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo: A hearty, flavorful gumbo that simmers to perfection in your slow cooker, offering a taste of authentic Louisiana stew with minimal effort.
- Instant Pot Gumbo: Get all the rich, complex flavors of traditional gumbo in a fraction of the time with this convenient Instant Pot version.
- Cajun Dirty Rice: A classic side dish or standalone meal, this savory rice dish is packed with seasonings and often includes ground meat for a “dirty” appearance and rich flavor.
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Skillet Recipe
Brandi Crawford
Pin Recipe
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet
- Stainless Steel Frying Pan
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 skinless chicken breast (half a pound) cut into ½ – 1 inch pieces.
- 8 oz andouille sausage cut into ½ – 1 inch pieces.
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped medium green bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped red onion
- 1 celery stalk diced
- 1 cup chopped squash
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
Instructions
- Place the chicken and sausage in a large bowl. Place the chopped veggies in a separate bowl. Drizzle both bowls with olive oil and then season with the seasonings.
- Heat a skillet on medium-high heat.
- Add the sausage and chicken to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink.
- Remove the chicken and sausage. Add the vegetables to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
- Add the chicken and sausage back to the skillet.
- Serve!
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Calories: 293kcal
Nutrition Data Disclaimer
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.