This Cajun chicken has serious gravy goals
Make Cajun Smothered Chicken for quick & easy dairy free family dinner
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Here’s what’s coming up this week…
A hearty, one-pan Cajun smothered chicken recipe with tender chicken thighs and a rich, savory gravy. It’s full of warm spices, super comforting, and perfect with mash, rice, or even just some crusty bread to soak it all up.
I’ll walk you through how to get that deep, flavorful base without fuss—and share an easy swap if you’re missing a traditional Cajun seasoning blend.
Get the recipe + simple tips below.
Happy cooking!
Living a healthy life = Getting the balance right
The Sunshine Pantry has been a little quiet of late… my apologies. But there is good reason.
This is a one-man-band (well, woman). I started The Sunshine Pantry to help both myself and others who are dairy free manage and improve their health.
And working yourself to the point of stress and exhaustion is not a route to good health. At the moment this is my side hustle (and why I’m SO ESPECIALLY thankful for your support!). I’ve got kids, and a job outside the home, and it’s not possible to do it all.
So, with your help, I’m building The Sunshine Pantry bit by bit this year, whilst trying to take care of myself, my family and those around me. I’m passionate about communicating to mums that you absolutely don’t have to do and have it ALL. This is the only life you’ll have, so take care of yourself in it. And I’m trying my best to take my own advice.
And so… sorry, not sorry… I’ve spent a few days cycling and climbing the beautiful hills on this green island that I call home, and I feel much better for it.
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✨ My Kitchen Favourites
Instant Pot | Circulon Non-Stick Oven Trays | Rajah Spices | Nuovva Cast Iron Dutch Oven | Circulon Lidded Skillet
✨ Why Not Try…
I’m always looking for easy wins when it comes to boosting the health benefits of my meals.
One way I love to do this is to include plenty of greens either in the main dish or as a side. Greens are especially important if you’re dairy free as they’re not only a great source of fibre, but also calcium and some protein.
Try these with this week’s cajun chicken recipe:
→ Easy Slow Cooked Veggie Collard Greens
Check out some more ways to get calcium without dairy!
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Cajun Smothered Chicken
Serves 4
Tools:
Large, lidded frying pan (this Circulon frying pan is the best I’ve ever had!*) or dutch oven (I love Nuovva* - great quality and way better value than lots of other brands!)
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Large mixing bowl
Ingredients:
2 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 large onion chopped
2 bell peppers any color, chopped
2 sticks celery chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour divided (about 30g)
2 tablespoons oil about 30ml
2 cups chicken stock 480ml
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Cornflour for thickening, as needed
salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cajun Spice Mix
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼-½ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
Find the full recipe instructions and printable version here →
Notes
Substitutions:
Chicken: You can also use skinless, boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
Cajun spices: Swap the spice mix with a convenient, ready-made ‘Cajun Seasoning’* to save time. Alternatively, you could use Creole seasoning for a similarly bold and flavorful result.
Tips:
Thicken the gravy: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and pour into the gravy. Heat for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
Storage: Cool to room temperature, place in an airtight container, and keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Heat in a saucepan on the stove until fully heated through. Test the internal temperature with a meat thermometer*. It should read 165°F / 75°C. If the gravy is too thick, loosen with a little extra water or stock.
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