Save A hearty, spicy dish featuring tender chicken, creamy pinto beans, and melted cheddar cheese with bold Cajun flavors (perfect for a comforting weeknight meal).
I made this Cajun chicken cheddar pintos on a chilly night and it quickly became a family favorite. The blend of spices with gooey cheese brings Southern comfort straight to your table.
Ingredients
- Poultry: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500 g), cut into bite-sized pieces
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 medium yellow onion, diced , 1 red bell pepper, diced , 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Beans: 2 cans (400 g each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- Dairy: 150 g (1 1/2 cups) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Liquids: 400 ml (1 2/3 cups) low-sodium chicken broth
- Spices & Seasonings: 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning , 1/2 tsp smoked paprika , 1/2 tsp dried oregano , 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste) , 1/4 tsp black pepper , 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Oils: 2 tbsp olive oil
- Garnish (optional): Sliced green onions , Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning: cook until browned and nearly cooked through (about 5 minutes). Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet: sauté until softened (3 minutes).
- Add Aromatics & Spices:
- Add garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using): cook until fragrant (1 minute).
- Add Beans & Broth:
- Stir in pinto beans and chicken broth: bring to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer with Chicken:
- Return chicken to the skillet: cover and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and flavors meld.
- Finish with Cheese:
- Reduce heat to low. Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the mixture: cover and let sit until cheese melts (about 2 minutes).
- Garnish & Serve:
- Garnish with green onions and cilantro (if desired). Serve hot.
Save My kids ask for this every week (especially when served with a side of cornbread). It is one of those meals that brings everyone to the table quickly!
Serving Suggestions
Pair with steaming rice: quinoa or a slice of fresh cornbread for a heartier meal.
Variations
Make it vegetarian: swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or more beans. Use Monterey Jack cheese for a milder taste.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving provides about 430 calories, 16 g fat, 34 g carbohydrates: and 38 g protein.
Save This Cajun chicken cheddar pintos comes together with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Enjoy every spicy: cheesy spoonful!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or additional pinto beans for a hearty, meatless option.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Popular choices include rice, quinoa, or cornbread to complement its creamy and spicy flavors.
- → How can I adjust the spiciness?
Increase or decrease Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper; taste as you cook for preferred heat level.
- → Can I use different cheese?
Sharp cheddar is recommended, but Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack also work well for flavor variations.
- → What is the best type of chicken for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces are ideal for quick cooking and tenderness.
- → Is this meal gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Cajun seasoning and broth. Always check ingredient labels.
- → Can leftovers be reheated?
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture and flavor.