Cajun Chicken Cheddar Pintos (Printable Version)
Spicy chicken, pinto beans, and cheddar cheese come together in a hearty, flavorful Cajun-inspired dish.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Poultry
01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.1 lbs), diced
→ Vegetables & Aromatics
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Beans
05 - 2 cans pinto beans (about 14 oz each), drained and rinsed
→ Dairy
06 - 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 5.3 oz)
→ Liquids
07 - 1 and 2/3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
→ Spices & Seasonings
08 - 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
09 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
→ Oils
14 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
→ Garnish (optional)
15 - Sliced green onions
16 - Fresh cilantro
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken pieces and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning; cook until browned and nearly cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
02 - In the same pan, add diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until vegetables are softened.
03 - Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Incorporate pinto beans and chicken broth. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer.
05 - Return the chicken pieces to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and flavors are well combined.
06 - Reduce heat to low, evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top. Cover and let sit for about 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt fully.
07 - Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro as desired. Serve immediately while hot.
# Additional Tips::
01 -
- Comforting, bold Cajun flavors make every bite exciting
- Fast and easy meal that is gluten-free and high in protein
02 -
- This dish is naturally gluten-free (always double check Cajun seasoning and broth)
- Leftovers keep well for two days in the fridge: flavors may intensify
03 -
- Adjust the cayenne to your preferred heat level: start with less if unsure
- Shred your own cheddar cheese: it melts better and tastes fresher