Save Sheet pan Cajun chicken with roasted vegetables is my answer to those hectic evenings when I crave something hearty flavorful and virtually effortless. Everything comes together on a single pan so cleanup vanishes while bold Cajun spices bring the meal alive with color and taste. This was the dish that finally got my kids excited about eating their veggies
After a long day no recipe saves dinner faster in my home than this one It is my go-to for both meal prep and spontaneous weeknight feasts
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Provide juicy flavorful protein and hold up well to roasting Look for fresh chicken with a slight pink hue and no odor
- Bell peppers: Bring natural sweetness and beautiful color Choose glossy firm peppers for best results
- Red onion: Adds mild bite and caramelizes beautifully Pick heavy onions with crisp skin
- Olive oil: Helps vegetables roast evenly and keeps chicken moist Select extra virgin for richer depth
- Cajun seasoning: Packs a punch of smoky spicy flavor Use a blend with quality paprika and dried herbs and adjust for salt and heat to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit Two hundred twenty degrees Celsius to get a nice quick roast and crispy edges
- Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl add the chicken thighs sliced bell peppers and red onion Drizzle the olive oil and toss in the Cajun seasoning Use your hands to combine everything thoroughly so each piece is well coated with oil and spice
- Arrange on the Sheet Pan
- Spread the chicken and vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet Make sure the pieces are not overlapping to ensure even roasting and caramelization
- Roast to Perfection
- Place in the oven and roast for about twenty five minutes The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit seventy four degrees Celsius and the vegetables are tender with crisped edges
- Rest and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let everything rest a couple minutes before serving This helps keep the chicken juicy and gives all the flavors a chance to meld
Save The bold Cajun seasoning is what takes simple chicken and vegetables to another level I have memories of my dad sneaking a taste of the roasted onions straight from the pan because they get so sweet smoky and caramelized
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to four days Store in an airtight container to maintain tenderness and flavor Warm gently in the oven or microwave If you want fresh crisp veggies avoid freezing as the texture can change
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken breast will work in place of thighs just check for doneness a bit earlier You can swap in broccoli florets or zucchini for the bell peppers and red onion too If Cajun seasoning is too fiery try smoked paprika and a pinch of dried thyme for a milder spin
Serving Suggestions
This sheet pan wonder loves fluffy rice quinoa or even creamy mashed potatoes Fresh lemon squeezed just before serving offers a nice bright contrast For extra crunch add a quick cabbage slaw on the side and call it dinner
Save Nothing beats the aroma that wafts through the kitchen as everything roasts I love setting out this dish at family gatherings because it disappears in minutes