Summer Cajun Chicken Skillet – Light, Bold, and Low-Carb

This Summer Cajun Chicken Skillet is your go-to for bold flavor and a quick, low-carb dinner—ready in just one pan and perfect for busy weeknights.

Summer Cajun Chicken Skillet – Light, Bold, and Low-Carb

Sun’s out, skillet’s on—this Cajun Chicken dish brings the sizzle with spicy, juicy chicken and fresh summer veggies in every bite. With golden, spice-crusted chicken nestled among sweet corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crisp-tender green beans, every bite feels like a celebration of the season. We try to keep our weeknight dinners on the healthier, low-carb side, and this skillet fits the bill perfectly—big on flavor, light on effort, and easy on the cleanup.

While we haven’t made it to Louisiana yet (definitely on the bucket list!), this dish brings just enough Cajun-inspired heat to make us feel like we’re one step closer. It’s the kind of bold, zesty dinner that satisfies without feeling heavy—just what we crave on warm evenings when turning on the oven is the last thing we want to do. Using fresh summer produce and simple pantry spices, this one-pan wonder comes together quickly and keeps the kitchen cool. If you love a good chicken dinner with attitude, this one’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your summer rotation.

What Ingredients do I need?

Here are a list of ingredients along with a shopping list by category for your convenience.

Shopping List

Produce

• Thin-cut chicken breasts (might be labeled chicken cutlets)
• French green beans (You can use fresh or frozen)
• Sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
• Cherry tomatoes

Pantry

• Olive oil
• Cajun seasoning - I use this brand or this one which you can find in the local grocery store - or choose your favorite.
• Salt
• Black pepper

Substitutions and Variations

Simple Substitutions

One of the best parts about this Summer Cajun Chicken Skillet is how easy it is to adapt based on what you have on hand. Here are a few substitution ideas to make this dish work for your kitchen and your taste:

• Chicken: Thin-cut chicken breasts cook quickly, but you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness. Just adjust the cook time slightly to ensure they’re fully done.

• Green Beans: Swap French green beans for regular green beans, snap peas, or even zucchini for a similar crisp-tender texture.

• Corn: Fresh sweet corn adds a great summer touch, but frozen corn works perfectly too—just thaw and pat dry before sautéing.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes or chopped roma tomatoes are a great stand-in if that’s what you’ve got.

• Cajun Seasoning: No Cajun blend on hand? Mix up your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne. You can also tone down the spice for a milder version.

• Add a Carb (if desired): While this is a low-carb meal on its own, you can easily serve it over rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes if you're feeding a mixed crowd.

Tasty Variations to Try

This skillet is a great base for experimenting with different flavors and ingredients depending on what’s in season—or what’s in your fridge! Here are a few ways to switch things up while keeping it just as quick and delicious:

• Add a Tangy Finish: A squeeze of fresh lemon or a sprinkle of crumbled feta on top adds a bright, tangy layer that pairs beautifully with the heat.

• Spice Swap: Want something smoky instead of spicy? Try a Southwest seasoning blend or smoked paprika in place of Cajun seasoning for a different flavor profile.

• Cheese, Please: Sprinkle a bit of shredded pepper jack or cheddar over the veggies and pop the skillet under the broiler for 2 minutes for a cheesy finish.

• Add Avocado: A few slices of fresh avocado or a spoonful of guacamole on top gives the dish a cooling, creamy contrast to the heat.

• Whole30 Variation:  To make this skillet Whole30-compliant, simply skip the corn and swap in another veggie (diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms)
• All the other ingredients are already Whole30-friendly—just be sure to check your Cajun seasoning blend for added sugar or non-compliant ingredients. 

Kitchen Tips for the Summer Cajun Chicken Skillet

• Use thin-cut chicken breasts for quick, even cooking. If you can’t find them, simply pound regular chicken breasts to about ½-inch thickness before seasoning.

• Don’t skip the seasoning! Cajun spice blends can vary, so taste yours before adding salt to avoid over-salting. Feel free to adjust the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne if you like it spicier.

• Blanch the green beans and corn to keep them crisp-tender before sautéing—this step locks in color and texture while speeding up the final skillet cook.

• Fresh veggies make a difference—if you can’t get fresh corn or green beans, frozen works great. Just thaw and pat dry to prevent sogginess.

• Keep the skillet hot when cooking veggies to get those tasty, lightly charred spots that add depth and a bit of smoky flavor. Stir gently to avoid breaking up the vegetables.

• Make it a one-pan meal by serving over cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh green salad for an easy low-carb dinner with minimal cleanup.

What to Eat With Your Cajun Skillet

This skillet is packed with protein and veggies, so it can totally stand on its own—but if you’re looking to round out the meal or feed a bigger crowd, here are some delicious pairings to consider:

• Cauliflower Rice or Zucchini Noodles: Keep it low-carb with a light, veggie-based side that soaks up all those bold Cajun juices.

• Crusty Bread or Cornbread: For those not counting carbs, a slice of warm bread is perfect for sopping up the flavorful pan drippings.

• Simple Green Salad: A crisp romaine or arugula salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the spice.

• Roasted Potatoes or Sweet Potato Wedges: If you're craving something heartier, roasted potatoes with a dusting of Cajun seasoning are a perfect match.

• Grilled Peaches or Pineapple: For a sweet summer finish, serve grilled fruit on the side or even as a light dessert!

Leftover Remix: Make It New Again

Got leftovers? Good news—this dish is just as tasty the next day, and even better when repurposed into something new. Here are a few easy ways to remix your Cajun chicken and veggies into a fresh meal:

• Low-Carb Power Bowl: Slice the leftover chicken and pile it over cauliflower rice with the sautéed veggies. Add avocado, a drizzle of hot sauce or ranch, and a squeeze of lime for a flavor-packed lunch.

• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Chop the chicken and mix with leftover veggies, a bit of shredded cheese, and a spoonful of salsa. Stuff into halved bell peppers and bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes.

• Wrap It Up: Roll everything into a low-carb tortilla with a smear of hummus or spicy mayo for a quick and satisfying wrap.

• Omelet or Scramble: Dice the leftovers and toss them into an egg scramble or omelet for a bold, savory breakfast.

    Equipment You May Need    

• 10" Cast Iron Skillet - These are perfect for cooking everyday
• 12" Cast Iron Skillet - A bigger size that will allow you to cook more
• Platter - great for serving

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One-Skillet Steak Bites with Sweet Potatoes & Peppers – A 30-Minute Masterpiece!

A sizzling one-skillet meal packed with tender steak, sweet potatoes, and crisp bell peppers—Whole30-friendly, bursting with flavor, and ready in just 30 minutes!

 

One-Skillet Steak Bites with Sweet Potatoes & Peppers – A 30-Minute Masterpiece!

If you're looking for a quick, flavorful, and nutritious meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, this One-Skillet Steak Bites with Sweet Potatoes & Peppers – A 30-Minute Masterpiece! is your new go-to recipe. Juicy, seared steak bites pair perfectly with caramelized sweet potatoes and crisp bell peppers, all tossed in a savory garlic-infused soy glaze. It’s the perfect combination of hearty, wholesome, and absolutely delicious—all made in just one pan for minimal cleanup!

Not only is this dish incredibly easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients and fits a variety of diets. The protein-rich steak and fiber-filled sweet potatoes create a balanced meal, while bell peppers add a fresh, vibrant crunch. If you're following Whole30, paleo, or gluten-free eating, a simple swap of coconut aminos for soy sauce makes this dish fully compliant. Plus, it’s versatile—great for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or even an impressive yet effortless dish for entertaining.

With just one pan and a handful of simple ingredients, this 30-minute meal is a true lifesaver for busy days. A quick pre-cook of the sweet potatoes in the microwave ensures they’re tender without extra stovetop time, while the steak sears to perfection in minutes. The result? A bold, satisfying, and nourishing dish that proves healthy eating can be both effortless and crave-worthy. Whether you’re feeding the family or making a solo dinner, this skillet meal will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

Produce

• Sweet potatoes
• Bell peppers (any color)
• Garlic

Meat

• Sirloin steak

Pantry

• Olive oil
• Soy sauce (or coconut aminos for Whole30)
• Kosher salt
• Cracked black pepper

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Sirloin Steak - try flank, NY strip, or Ribeye

• Bell Peppers - Zucchini or mushrooms (for a different veggie option)

• Soy Sauce - Coconut aminos (for Whole30 or gluten-free)

• Garlic - Garlic powder (if fresh garlic isn’t available)

Variations

• Steak Fajita Style - Ingredients: Add sliced onions, extra bell peppers (different colors), and a pinch of cumin, chili powder, and paprika.

• Balsamic Steak & Veggies - Ingredients: Swap soy sauce for balsamic vinegar and drizzle the cooked dish with a little balsamic glaze.

• Mediterranean-Inspired - Ingredients: Replace the soy sauce with lemon juice, and add olives, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano and feta cheese at the end.

• Sweet & Spicy Teriyaki - Ingredients: Swap soy sauce for teriyaki sauce, and add a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.

• Lemon Herb Steak & Veggies - Ingredients: Swap soy sauce for lemon juice and season the dish with fresh thyme or rosemary.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

Perfect Steak Bites

• Let the steak come to room temperature before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and a nice sear.
• Pat the steak dry with paper towels before cooking. This helps achieve a better sear since excess moisture can cause it to steam rather than brown.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the steak. If needed, cook the steak in batches to ensure it gets a nice caramelized crust. Overcrowding can cause it to steam instead of sear.

Pre-Cook Sweet Potatoes

• Microwave the sweet potatoes to speed up cooking time. Cooking them just until they’re slightly tender gives them a perfect texture when browned in the pan.
• Dice the sweet potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate. Larger chunks will take longer, while smaller ones will cook faster.

Add Fresh Herbs or Acidity

• Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or thyme can brighten up the dish when sprinkled on top just before serving.
• A squeeze of lemon or lime juice at the end helps to balance the richness of the steak and sweet potatoes and adds a refreshing note.

Suggested Side Dishes:  

• Simple Green Salad – A crisp side salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the steak.

• Quinoa or Brown Rice – Adds extra fiber and makes the meal more filling.

• Farro or Bulgur – Nutty and chewy grains that pair well with the steak’s savory flavors.

• Chimichurri Sauce – A vibrant herby sauce that pairs beautifully with steak.

• Crusty Bread – A slice of sourdough or a toasted baguette is great for soaking up any extra juices.

   EQUIPMENT YOU MAY NEED   

• Large Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan – A heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron) helps achieve a great sear on the steak and evenly cooks the vegetables.

• Cutting Board – You’ll need one for dicing the steak, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers. Consider using separate boards for meat and vegetables to avoid cross-contamination.

• Sharp Knife – A good-quality chef’s knife makes chopping and dicing much easier.

• Tongs or Spatula – Tongs are great for flipping the steak bites, while a spatula helps stir the veggies without breaking them apart.

• Measuring Spoons – For accurately measuring the olive oil, soy sauce, and seasonings.

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One-Skillet Steak Bites with Sweet Potatoes and Bell Peppers

serves 4

1 large sweet potato, diced into 1″ pieces
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 lb sirloin steak, diced into 1″ pieces
3 tablespoon olive oil, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 bell peppers, seeded and diced into 1″ pieces
2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
2 tablespoon soy sauce


Place the diced sweet potatoes into a microwave safe bowl, then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt. Cover with a plate and microwave on high until just barely tender, 4-6 minutes stirring halfway through.  You want the potatoes just so you can pierce one with the tip of a knife with a little resistance.  You don't want them too cooked or they will turn out mushy. 

Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and heat until shimmering. Add the steak in a single layer. Cook, turning every so often like stir frying, until browned, about 6 minutes. Remove the steak to a plate or baking sheet.  Set aside.

 
Reduce the heat to medium-high and add another tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the sweet potatoes, tossing to coat and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, 3-4 minutes.  Add the bell pepper, stirring occasionally until crips tender, about 3-4 minutes.  Add the garlic and stir to combine.  

Add the steak and juices back to the pan along with the soy sauce. Toss all ingredients and cook an additional 1- 2 minutes until the liquid has evaporated.