Creamy Cajun Chicken Skillet (No Cream Soup)

If you’re craving a rich, flavorful, and comforting meal without the hassle of canned cream soups, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Skillet (No Cream Soup) is your new go-to dinner. It’s packed with tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a luscious creamy sauce made with simple pantry ingredients — no processed shortcuts here! This dish is perfect for weeknights when you want something quick but impressive, or even for weekends when you want to impress family and friends with bold Cajun flavors. Plus, it’s made with wholesome ingredients and a touch of spice that’s just right for those who love a bit of heat without overwhelming the palate.

Why This Recipe Works

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Skillet (No Cream Soup) hits all the right notes. First, the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika bring that authentic Southern-inspired heat and smokiness that makes the dish sing. Using chicken broth and unsweetened almond milk instead of canned cream soups keeps the sauce light yet silky smooth, and the cornstarch thickens it perfectly without any clumps. Diced onions and colorful bell peppers add freshness, texture, and a subtle sweetness that balances the spice. Cooking everything in one skillet streamlines cleanup and lets the ingredients meld together beautifully. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple and quick to prepare.

What to Buy

• 1 lb chicken breasts, diced: Opt for boneless, skinless for faster cooking and easy eating.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): A heart-healthy oil perfect for sautéing.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: For aromatic flavor.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced: Crunchy and colorful.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds color and a touch of sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: Choose a blend that suits your spice tolerance.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: For that smoky warmth.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground for best flavor.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Use a low-sodium version to control saltiness.
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk: The creamy base without dairy.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: For thickening the sauce.
• Salt: To taste.
• Chopped fresh parsley: For garnish and a fresh pop of color.

Tools of the Trade

• Large skillet or sauté pan: Essential for cooking everything in one pot.
• Sharp knife: For dicing chicken and vegetables evenly.
• Cutting board: A clean surface for prepping ingredients.
• Measuring spoons and cups: To get your seasoning and liquids just right.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring without scratching your pan.
• Small bowl: To mix cornstarch with almond milk before adding to the skillet.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Skillet (No Cream Soup) in Steps

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by dicing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion and bell peppers, and mince the garlic cloves. Measure out your Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and other spices so everything is ready to go.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and sprinkle with half the Cajun seasoning and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion, green, and red bell peppers. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until aromatic.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Sprinkle the remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika over the vegetables. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with a splash of almond milk until smooth. Slowly pour this slurry into the skillet while stirring continuously. The sauce will begin to thicken within a couple of minutes.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the creamy sauce. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld and the chicken reheats. Taste and adjust salt as needed.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve this creamy, spicy goodness over rice, pasta, or even with warm crusty bread for soaking up every last bit.

If you love this style of Cajun chicken, you should also check out recipes like Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Cajun Chicken Lasagna Rolls for more exciting ways to enjoy these bold flavors.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for more heat.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in sliced mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a melty finish.
• Rice or Pasta Mix: Serve over cooked rice, quinoa, or your favorite pasta for a hearty meal.
• Herb Infusion: Add a teaspoon of dried thyme or oregano for more herbal aroma.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Chicken is dry: Don’t overcook the chicken initially; it will continue cooking in the sauce. Remove it from heat as soon as it’s just cooked through.
• Sauce too thin: Make sure to mix cornstarch with almond milk before adding, and allow a few minutes for the sauce to thicken while simmering.
• Spice too mild or too strong: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your taste preference. Start with less if unsure, and add more later.
• Vegetables mushy: Don’t overcook the peppers and onions; they should be tender but still have a slight bite to keep the dish vibrant.

How to Store & Reheat

Store leftover Creamy Cajun Chicken Skillet (No Cream Soup) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of almond milk or chicken broth to loosen it back up.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Skillet (No Cream Soup) FAQs

Can I use other types of milk instead of almond milk?

Absolutely! You can substitute unsweetened soy milk, oat milk, or even regular dairy milk if you prefer. Just stick to unsweetened versions to avoid altering the savory flavor of the dish.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your Cajun seasoning and chicken broth do not contain gluten. Always check labels if you have gluten sensitivities.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level is moderate, with warmth from the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. If you prefer it milder, reduce the Cajun seasoning, or add more if you like it hotter. The creamy sauce helps balance the heat nicely.

Desserts to Finish

• Classic Lemon Bars – A tangy and sweet finish to balance the spice.
• Chocolate Ganache Tart – Rich and indulgent to satisfy any sweet tooth.
• Mixed Berry Crumble – Fresh berries with a crunchy topping for a light dessert.
• Coconut Mango Pudding – Creamy and tropical for a refreshing end to your meal.

That’s a Wrap

Creating a Creamy Cajun Chicken Skillet (No Cream Soup) is easier than you might think, and the result is a dish bursting with flavor, vibrant colors, and creamy goodness that doesn’t rely on canned shortcuts. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a comforting meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this skillet recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the bold and smoky Cajun flavors we all love. Don’t forget to try the other exciting dishes like Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta or Creamy Cajun Chicken Lasagna Rolls for even more delicious ideas!

Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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