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Cajun Chicken & Gravy

Cajun Chicken & Gravy

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Cajun Chicken & Gravy is a hearty, soulful dish featuring juicy chicken seasoned with bold Cajun spices, cooked in a creamy, spicy gravy made from a roux, vegetables, and rich dairy. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it combines vibrant flavors with simple ingredients to create a family-friendly meal that’s ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 chicken thighs or breasts, bone-in or boneless

Spices & Seasoning

  • 23 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend (paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, herbs)
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Roux & Gravy Base

  • 2 tablespoons butter (plus more for searing)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Dairy

  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup heavy cream or milk (or coconut milk/cashew cream for dairy-free)

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Season and Sear the Chicken: Generously coat the chicken pieces on all sides with Cajun seasoning. Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant, building the flavorful base for the gravy.
  3. Make the Roux and Build the Gravy: Stir in additional butter and sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables. Continuously stir to form a roux and cook for 2 minutes until it turns light golden. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Allow the mixture to thicken into a smooth, velvety sauce.
  4. Return Chicken and Simmer: Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet with the gravy. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  5. Finish with Cream and Season: Stir in heavy cream or milk to give the gravy a rich, creamy texture. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Choose chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat; breasts work well for a leaner option.
  • Cook the roux until golden to develop a nutty depth of flavor essential for the gravy.
  • Whisk broth in slowly to avoid lumps and ensure a silky sauce texture.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning gradually to control the spice level to your taste.
  • Let the dish rest a few minutes off heat to allow flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

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