Dairy-Free Spicy Cajun Chicken with Roasted Veggies – A Bold & Healthy Dinner

When it comes to flavor-packed, healthy meals, nothing quite compares to the bold taste of Cajun seasoning paired with juicy, tender chicken. This Dairy-Free Spicy Cajun Chicken with Roasted Veggies is the ultimate comfort dish with a fiery kick, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Whether you’re trying to eat clean, avoid dairy, or simply love meals bursting with smoky, spicy flavors, this dish delivers in every bite.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance—the spicy, charred chicken pairs perfectly with sweet and savory roasted vegetables, offering a meal that’s not only satisfying but also nutrient-dense. Plus, it’s an easy one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Bold, Fiery Flavors: The Cajun seasoning blend infuses the chicken with a smoky, spicy depth that’s both irresistible and comforting.
• Healthy and Dairy-Free: Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich vegetables, this meal fuels your body without any dairy ingredients.
• Easy to Make: With minimal prep and just one pan for roasting, it’s a fuss-free recipe for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Swap out the veggies or adjust the spice level to make it your own.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Leftovers store well, making it a great option for make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

For the Spicy Cajun Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small ones)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon

For the Roasted Veggies:

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, chopped into half-moons
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and lemon juice, then rub the seasoning blend evenly over each piece.
4. Cover and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. Spread the seasoned vegetables in an even layer on a large baking sheet.

Step 3: Roast the Chicken and Vegetables

1. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the same baking sheet as the veggies, ensuring they aren’t crowded.
2. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
3. For extra charred edges, broil on high for the last 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

1. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve hot with the roasted vegetables on the side.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or an extra squeeze of lemon for a bright finish.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use Fresh Spices: The key to a bold Cajun flavor is fresh, high-quality spices.
• Marinate for Longer: If time allows, marinate the chicken for a few hours to deepen the flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread out the veggies to ensure they roast properly rather than steam.
• Check Chicken Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.

Creative Variations

• Make It a Bowl: Serve over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a hearty meal.
• Wrap It Up: Slice the Cajun chicken and veggies and wrap them in a warm tortilla for a delicious dairy-free wrap.
• Add Avocado: A few slices of avocado add creaminess and balance the spice beautifully.
• Extra Heat: Love spice? Add an extra dash of cayenne or top with hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side of Cornbread: A slightly sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with the bold Cajun spices.
• Over a Salad: Serve sliced Cajun chicken over a bed of mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette.
• With a Cooling Dip: A dairy-free ranch or avocado crema helps tame the heat while adding extra flavor.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in a skillet over medium heat to keep the chicken juicy.

The Bottom Line:

This Dairy-Free Spicy Cajun Chicken with Roasted Veggies is a meal that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland. The perfect blend of heat, smokiness, and roasted sweetness makes every bite exciting. Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for a family, or hosting friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try it out, experiment with your favorite add-ons, and enjoy a flavorful, wholesome dinner!

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Also Read:

23 Irresistible Chicken Recipes for Dinner – Light, Healthy, and Delicious