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–+ servings

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

Ella Cooks
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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Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 610 kcal

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!).

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

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions

    Step 1: Season & Sear the Chicken

    • Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.

    Step 2: Make the Cajun Butter Sauce

    • In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
    • Stir in Cajun seasoning and chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits.
    • Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and honey, stirring until smooth.
    • Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes, then return the chicken to the pan.

    Step 3: Cook the Crispy Parmesan Corn

    • In a separate dry skillet, heat corn over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    • Add butter, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, and honey, stirring until slightly caramelized.
    • Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and let it crisp up for 1 more minute before removing from heat.

    Step 4: Assemble & Serve

    • Spoon the creamy Cajun butter sauce over the chicken.
    • Pile the crispy Parmesan corn on the side.
    • Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

    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.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 610kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 38gFat: 38g
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
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