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Ella Cooks

Creamy Cajun Butter Chicken with Crispy Parmesan Corn (One-Pan Magic!)

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This Creamy Cajun Butter Chicken with Crispy Parmesan Corn is an irresistible one-pan meal that’s bold, creamy, buttery, and packed with smoky Cajun flavors. It combines juicy pan-seared chicken in a rich, garlicky Cajun butter sauce with crispy, cheesy Parmesan corn, making every bite a perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and crispy textures.
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Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 610
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients. Serves 4-6
For the Chicken:
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (or 2 large chicken breasts, halved)
  • 1 ½ tsp Cajun seasoning
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Cajun Butter Sauce:
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ¾ cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter version
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp honey balances the spice perfectly!
For the Crispy Parmesan Corn:
  • 2 cups sweet corn fresh or frozen, thawed
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp honey
For Garnish:
  • Chopped fresh parsley or green onions
  • Extra Parmesan cheese
  • Red pepper flakes optional for extra heat

Equipment

  • Large skillet or cast-iron pan – For one-pan cooking.
  • Tongs & spatula – For handling chicken and stirring corn.
  • Cheese grater – For fresh Parmesan (highly recommended!).

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
    Step 1: Season & Sear the Chicken
    1. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
    2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    3. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
    Step 2: Make the Cajun Butter Sauce
    1. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
    2. Stir in Cajun seasoning and chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits.
    3. Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and honey, stirring until smooth.
    4. Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes, then return the chicken to the pan.
    Step 3: Cook the Crispy Parmesan Corn
    1. In a separate dry skillet, heat corn over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    2. Add butter, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, and honey, stirring until slightly caramelized.
    3. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and let it crisp up for 1 more minute before removing from heat.
    Step 4: Assemble & Serve
    1. Spoon the creamy Cajun butter sauce over the chicken.
    2. Pile the crispy Parmesan corn on the side.
    3. Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 610kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 38gFat: 38g

    Notes

    Want a Lighter Version?
    Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a creamy but healthier sauce.
    Want Extra Crisp Corn?
    Cook the corn without stirring for 2-3 minutes to get a golden, crispy edge.
    Want More Heat?
    Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce.
    Want a Smokier Flavor?
    Swap smoked paprika for chipotle powder or a dash of liquid smoke.
    Serving & Pairing Ideas
    🍷 With a Glass of Chardonnay – Pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce.
    🥖 With Warm Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up extra Cajun butter sauce.
    🥗 With a Fresh Side Salad – A simple arugula & lemon salad balances the richness.
    Storage & Reheating Tips
    To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
    To Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth.
    To Freeze: Freeze without the cream sauce for up to 2 months.

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