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Spicy Cajun Chicken With Roasted Veggies - Bold, Simple, and Weeknight-Friendly

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, pounded to even thickness)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more as needed)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for finishing)
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (reduce to 1/2 teaspoon if salt-sensitive)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Lemon wedges for serving
  • Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
  • Cooked rice, quinoa, or warm tortillas on the side

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven: Set to 425°F (220°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment or lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix the Cajun spice: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Stir until evenly blended.
  3. Prep the chicken: Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil and about half of the Cajun spice mix. Make sure every piece is coated. Set aside to let the seasoning soak in while you prep the vegetables.
  4. Prep the veggies: Add broccoli, bell peppers, red onion, and zucchini to a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with the remaining Cajun spice. Toss well so every piece gets a good hit of seasoning.
  5. Arrange on the sheet pan: Spread the vegetables out in a single layer, leaving space for the chicken. Place the chicken pieces on the pan without overlapping. Crowded pans steam, so use two pans if needed.
  6. Roast: Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping the chicken once halfway through. Veggies should be tender with caramelized edges, and chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Optional broil: For extra char, switch to broil for 1–2 minutes at the end. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  8. Finish and serve: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything and sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve as is, or pair with rice, quinoa, or tortillas.