If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that comes together in a snap and requires minimal cleanup, then you absolutely must try this One Pan Cajun Lime Chicken Recipe. It’s an unbeatable combination of zesty lime, smoky Cajun spices, and tender baked chicken paired with sweet, colorful bell peppers and onions. Every bite bursts with a perfect balance of heat, citrus brightness, and savory richness that feels like a festive celebration right at your dinner table. Whether you’re busy weeknight cooking or making something special for friends, this dish delivers big on taste while keeping things super simple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll find that this One Pan Cajun Lime Chicken Recipe calls for straightforward, everyday ingredients that come together to create a dish full of depth and color. Each element plays a crucial role: the Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick, lime juice brightens everything up, and fresh veggies bring just the right amount of crunch and sweetness.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The perfect protein base that absorbs the marinade beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the marinade stick and keeps the chicken juicy.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: Adds that essential smoky, spicy flavor that defines the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle aromatic depth.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Enhances color and adds a mild earthiness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spiciness.
- Zest and juice of 2 limes: Delivers a fresh, tangy pop that cuts through the spices.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Brings just a hint of sweetness to mellow the heat.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds vibrant color and a natural sweetness.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Brings crunch and a slight peppery note.
- 1 small red onion, sliced: Offers subtle sharpness and softness when roasted.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish that ties the whole dish together.
How to Make One Pan Cajun Lime Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F; this high heat will help caramelize the chicken and vegetables beautifully. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, lime zest, lime juice, and honey. The honey not only balances the Cajun spice but also helps create a lovely glaze on the chicken. Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl or zip-top bag and pour this marinade over them. Toss everything well, ensuring all the chicken pieces get a nice coating. Let the chicken soak in those incredible flavors for at least 15 minutes, or up to 8 hours if you can plan ahead. This step is key for juicy, flavorful chicken.
Step 2: Arrange Chicken and Vegetables on a Pan
Grab a large rimmed baking sheet or an oven-safe skillet. Spread the marinated chicken breasts evenly across the pan, then nestle the sliced red and green bell peppers along with the red onion around the chicken. Drizzle any leftover marinade over the veggies to infuse them with Cajun lime goodness as well. This one-pan setup means the veggies roast in all the delicious juices, making cleanup a breeze and adding layers of flavor.
Step 3: Bake and Finish with a Broil
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. For a stunning final touch, switch your oven to broil for 2 to 3 minutes to get a little char and extra crisp on top. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn! This step amps up the flavor with smoky edges and a beautifully golden finish.
How to Serve One Pan Cajun Lime Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Once your chicken and veggies come out of the oven, sprinkle the dish generously with freshly chopped cilantro. Its bright, herbal notes elevate the spices and lime in the recipe, providing a refreshing contrast to the smoky heat. You might also consider serving with lime wedges for anyone who wants an extra burst of citrus zing.
Side Dishes
This One Pan Cajun Lime Chicken Recipe shines beautifully alongside fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or warm tortillas. Rice is fantastic for soaking up the flavorful pan juices, while mashed potatoes add comforting richness that balances the bold Cajun spices. Tortillas make for a fun way to turn leftovers into tacos if you have any, letting you enjoy this meal in a whole new way.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or mix things up, slice the cooked chicken and serve it on a vibrant grain bowl with black beans, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. You can also pile the chicken and roasted veggies into warmed tortillas for bright, spicy Cajun wraps. The mix of textures and colors will make your plate as appealing as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making for a tasty next-day meal. Just be sure to cool the food completely before storing to maintain freshness.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance or save leftovers for later, this recipe freezes well. Store portioned chicken and veggies in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings on medium power to avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of lime juice or a drizzle of olive oil before reheating can help keep everything moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in the One Pan Cajun Lime Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully here and tend to stay extra juicy during baking. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as thighs might take a little longer to reach the safe internal temperature.
Is the Cajun seasoning very spicy in this recipe?
The Cajun seasoning provides a moderate amount of heat, but it’s easy to adjust. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount or use a mild Cajun blend. For spice lovers, feel free to add extra seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can I prepare this One Pan Cajun Lime Chicken Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, marinating the chicken up to 8 hours ahead in the refrigerator enhances the flavors beautifully. However, it’s best to wait to bake the chicken just before serving to preserve the fresh texture and vibrant roasted veggies.
What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh limes?
If fresh limes aren’t available, bottled lime juice works in a pinch, although fresh will always give a brighter, fresher flavor. You can also experiment with lemon zest and juice for a slightly different but still delicious citrus note.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in sliced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to mix up the veggie variety. Just keep in mind that some veggies may affect cooking time, so add them according to their cooking needs to ensure everything finishes perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This One Pan Cajun Lime Chicken Recipe has quickly become one of my top go-to dishes when I want something that’s both fuss-free and packed with vibrant flavors. The simplicity of tossing everything in one pan combined with the lively Cajun and lime combo makes it a winner every time. I encourage you to give it a try soon—you’ll have a delicious, colorful meal ready to impress with minimum effort and maximum flavor. Happy cooking!
Print
One Pan Cajun Lime Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus optional marinating time up to 8 hours)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One Pan Cajun Lime Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dinner featuring juicy chicken breasts marinated in a tangy lime and Cajun spice blend. Baked alongside crisp bell peppers and red onion, this dish offers a perfect balance of spice, zest, and sweetness, making it a satisfying gluten-free main course that’s ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Zest and juice of 2 limes
- 1 tablespoon honey
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken and vegetables.
- Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, lime zest, lime juice, and honey. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Toss or seal and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
- Arrange Ingredients: Spread the marinated chicken breasts evenly on a large rimmed baking sheet or an oven-safe skillet. Arrange the sliced red and green bell peppers and red onion around the chicken. Drizzle any leftover marinade over the vegetables.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and vegetables are tender.
- Broil (Optional): For a slightly charred finish, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the chicken and veggies. Serve hot with your choice of rice, potatoes, or tortillas.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken up to 8 hours in advance to fully absorb the spices and lime.
- The cooked chicken can be sliced and repurposed for tacos, salads, or bowls, making great leftovers.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level for a milder or spicier dish.
