Delicious Chicken Bake Recipe for Your Next Dinner
Y’all, get ready to have your taste buds tingling and your bellies satisfied with this Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake Recipe! This is a recipe that I’m proud to call my own, as it mixes some of the classic soulful tastes of the south, with zesty cajun seasoning, and hearty Italian flavors.
As a chef specializing in southern-style cuisine, I am always looking for ways to add a creative spin on traditional soul food dishes. With this recipe, I’ve taken the classic oven-baked chicken breast dish and added a Cajun-Italian twist that’s sure to be a hit at any dinner party or gathering.
This recipe is perfect for those who are craving something savory and satisfying but still want to keep things interesting in the kitchen. The flavors in this chicken bake will transport you to the heart of Louisiana and Italy right in the comfort of your own home.
So grab your aprons, preheat your ovens, and let’s get cooking y’all! I guarantee you won’t regret trying out this Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake Recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a twist on classic Southern and Italian cuisine? Look no further than this flavorful and hearty Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake Recipe.
What’s not to love about tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a creamy sauce with the bold flavors of cajun seasoning and Italian herbs? This dish screams comfort food with a kick.
But that’s not all – this recipe is incredibly versatile. Serve it over pasta, rice, or as is with some crunchy garlic bread on the side. You can even use the leftovers for sandwiches or salads throughout the week.
Not to mention, this dish requires minimal prep work and can be whipped up in no time with just a few staple ingredients from your pantry. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or when you’re craving some soul food with a twist.
So, whether you’re a lover of Southern recipes, Italian cuisine, or just need a new go-to chicken bake recipe in your arsenal, this Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake Recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredient List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake Recipe:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can of Italian stewed tomatoes
- 1 can of Mexican-style tomato sauce
- 1 green pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup of sliced red onions
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of butter, cut into small pieces
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Italian twist, we’ll be adding oregano, basil, and tomato paste. Get these ingredients ready as well.
Note: You can adjust the seasoning according to your preferences. If you want a spicier kick, you may add more cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
The Recipe How-To
Let’s get cooking! This Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake Recipe is the perfect dinner for a cozy night and it’s guaranteed to satisfy that grumbling tummy. Here are the steps on how to make this delicious chicken bake:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 green pepper, chopped
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 1 can Italian stewed tomatoes
- 1 can Mexican tomato sauce
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Step One: Marinade and Seasoning
Before starting with the recipe, preheat your oven to 350F. First, marinate the chicken breasts with cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Allow it to sit for at least thirty minutes so that the flavors will blend together nicely.
Step Two: Sautéing
Grab a frying pan and apply cooking spray. When it’s hot, put in chicken breasts and cook until both sides have turned golden brown. Set aside when finished.
Step Three: Sauce-making
In the same frying pan that you cooked the chicken in, add the chopped onions and bell peppers then sauté for around four minutes or until they become soft. Then add canned Italians stewed tomatoes, tomato sauce and tomato pasta then mix well together before adding the Italian dressing into the mix.
Step Four: Chicken-Bake Preparing
Take out a baking dish and coat with cooking spray then place chicken breasts in it. Pour the sauce over the chicken evenly before spreading shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Finalize seasoning by adding oregano and basil.
Step Five: Chicken Baking
It’s time to put the chicken bake in the oven! Set it to 350°F then bake for about forty minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step Six: Serving and Pairing
Once the timer goes off, take out the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake is perfect when paired with rice or pasta. Serve and indulge your taste buds!
With these easy-to-follow steps, this Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake Recipe will become one of your family’s favorite dishes in no time.
Substitutions and Variations
This Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake recipe is incredibly versatile, and it can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few substitution ideas and variations to get you started:
– If you prefer spicier flavors, you can add more cajun seasoning or even some red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade. For those who like it milder, cut back on the cajun seasoning or use a regular Italian herb blend instead.
– You can replace the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a more succulent and tender meat. If you prefer, you could also use bone-in chicken pieces for a more rustic result.
– For a vegetarian version of this recipe, substitute the chicken with portobello mushrooms or firm tofu. Instead of using chicken broth in the sauce, opt for vegetable broth or even water. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly since mushrooms and tofu will require less time in the oven.
– To make this recipe gluten-free, replace the flour used for coating the chicken with cornstarch or an all-purpose gluten-free mix. Double-check that your cajun seasoning is also gluten-free, as some commercial brands may contain wheat-based ingredients.
– Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheese types for this recipe – other excellent options include cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone.
– Instead of serving this dish with pasta, consider pairing it with rice or making it into a delicious chicken casserole. You could also serve it alongside some crusty bread to soak up every drop of the creamy cajun sauce.
With these substitutions and variations in mind, you can create countless new versions of this Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake recipe that will keep your taste buds excited!
Serving and Pairing
The Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake Recipe is a dish that deserves to be savored slowly and enjoyed with the perfect accompaniment. A steaming hot serving of this chicken bake served with your chosen side dish and a refreshing beverage is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
One of my favorite pairings with this chicken bake is a simple salad dressed in Italian vinaigrette. The crispness of lettuce mixed with tangy notes from the dressing enhances the flavors of this hearty chicken feast. If you’re looking for something slightly filling, you can’t go wrong with fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta. The balance of textures gives this Southern-style meal a satisfying finish.
For pasta lovers, enjoy the comforting notes of an Italian style pasta such as spaghetti or fettuccine genovese. Coated in tomato sauce and garlic, it brings our Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake to life in every crunchy bite. Don’t forget to sprinkle parmesan cheese on top for added depth of flavor.
If you’re in the mood for a lighter dish or looking for something to feed those picky eaters, pair it with fragrant jasmine rice or steamed vegetables like broccoli and carrots. The subtle aromas and tastes of these sides perfectly complement the bold flavors of our chicken bake.
No matter what you choose to pair it with, the Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake Recipe is sure to be a hit on your dinner table or served at your next potluck party. Enjoy!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Now that you’ve made this delicious Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake Recipe, you might be wondering how to store the leftovers or make it ahead for a hassle-free meal. Let me guide you through the process!
To make ahead, prepare the chicken bake following the recipe instructions but stop before baking it in the oven. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
If you have any leftovers, allow them to cool down before placing them in an airtight container or covering with plastic wrap. The baked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Be sure to reheat it fully before serving.
When reheating, you have two options: oven or microwave. For best results, I recommend reheating the chicken bake in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the chicken bake in an oven-safe dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through. If you prefer using a microwave, ensure that you cover your container and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Additionally, if you have any extra sauce leftover from making this recipe, don’t toss it out! Store it in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to three days. It’s perfect for adding flavor to pasta, rice, or as a topping for grilled meat.
Using these tips will help keep your Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake fresh and flavorful so that you can enjoy it again and again!
Tips for Perfect Results
So, you’re ready to make this mouth-watering Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake recipe? Here are some tips to ensure you get perfect results every time.
1. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This will save you time and make it easier to prepare the chicken for baking. It also results in a more uniform cook time.
2. Season your chicken: Don’t skip seasoning your chicken with cajun seasoning, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. It adds flavor and depth to your dish.
3. Preheat your oven: Make sure to preheat the oven to 350 F before baking the chicken. This helps ensure even cooking and a crispy outer layer.
4. Butter makes it better: Adding cajun butter on top of the chicken while baking infuses it with extra flavor that’s hard to resist.
5. Don’t overcook the chicken: Chicken should be cooked until its internal temperature reaches 165 F. But don’t overcook it or it will become dry and tough.
6. Cheese is your friend: The combination of mozzarella cheese and tomato paste makes for a creamy sauce that perfectly complements the cajun seasoning on the chicken.
7. Let it rest: Once you’ve removed the chicken from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to flow back into the meat, making it more tender and juicy.
By following these tips, you’ll have a delicious Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Bottom Line
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In conclusion, the Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake Recipe is an irresistible dish that will leave your taste buds craving for more. With a perfect combination of Italian and Cajun flavors, this recipe offers a unique twist to the classic chicken bake. Whether you’re in the mood for soul food or simply looking to try out some new recipes, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
By following the step-by-step instructions and tips provided in this recipe article, you’ll be able to create a delicious meal that will impress your family and friends. From the choice of ingredients to the serving suggestions, every aspect of this recipe has been carefully thought out to ensure that you get the best results.
So why not give this recipe a try? Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, you’ll find that the Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake Recipe is simple and easy to make. So gather up your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s get cooking! Trust me; it will be worth it.
Southern Cajun Italian Twist Chicken Bake Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 large chicken breasts (skinless, boneless)
- garlic powder
- 2 red onions (sliced)
- 1 green pepper (diced or sliced, either way)
- 1 pint stewed Mexican tomato
- 1 pint Italian stewed tomatoes
- 5 1/2 ounces tomato paste
- 1 1/2 teaspoons basil
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon cajun seasoning, Add more if you like it spicy hot
- salt & pepper, over top
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (Grated)
- cooked lasagna noodles (Optional if you wish to serve the chicken and sauce over noodles)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Sprinkle chicken with garlic powder and place chicken in a greased 9x13 inch pan.
- Cut onions and peppers and place over top of chicken.
- Mix stewed tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings (except salt and pepper) together in bowl. Then, pour over chicken.
- Shake salt and pepper over entire dish to taste.
- Bake in oven for 40 minutes. Then, add cheese over chicken and bake another 20 minutes.
- If you are serving over noodles, start boiling your noodles when you add the cheese. Drain noodles and ladle the sauce and one piece of chicken over each serving of noodles.
- This dish is also good served over rice.