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Spicy Cajun Chicken Scampi - Bold, Garlicky, and Weeknight-Friendly

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra smokiness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan (optional but recommended)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Cooked pasta (linguine or spaghetti), rice, or crusty bread for serving

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken: Pat chicken dry. In a bowl, toss with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Preheat the pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter.
  3. Sear the chicken: Add chicken in a single layer. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Work in batches if needed to avoid steaming. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Build the scampi base: Reduce heat to medium. Add 1 tablespoon butter and the garlic. Sauté 30–45 seconds until fragrant, not browned.
  5. Deglaze: Pour in the white wine (or broth), scraping up browned bits. Simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  6. Finish the sauce: Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Whisk until glossy. Taste and adjust salt and heat levels.
  7. Bring it together: Return chicken and any juices to the pan. Toss to coat. If serving with pasta, add cooked pasta plus a splash of pasta water and toss with Parmesan until silky.
  8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with parsley. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread. Add extra lemon wedges and Parmesan if you like.