Description
Smoky, juicy Cajun Chicken Thighs with a golden crust and bold flavor. A simple weeknight dinner with just the right kick of spice.
Ingredients
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1 tsp smoked paprika
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: chopped parsley or lemon wedges
Instructions
1. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
2. Mix Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Rub seasoning blend all over chicken. Drizzle with olive oil and rub again to coat.
4. Heat skillet over medium-high. Place chicken skin-side down, sear 6–7 minutes until golden. Flip and cook 6–7 minutes.
5. Lower heat to medium, cover, and cook 10 minutes until chicken reaches 74 °C (165 °F).
6. Rest 5 minutes, garnish with parsley or lemon wedges, and serve.
Notes
For oven baking: Cook at 200 °C (400 °F) for 35–40 minutes.
Use boneless thighs for faster cooking (20–25 minutes).
Drizzle honey during last 5 minutes for a sweet-spicy Cajun glaze.
Turn this into Creamy Cajun Chicken by deglazing the skillet with cream and broth after cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Seared / Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun, Southern-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh
- Calories: 395
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 165 mg
Keywords: Cajun chicken thighs, spicy chicken, skillet chicken recipe