Name: Cajun Chicken Mushroom Bites Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into ¾-1 inch pieces; 1 tsp smoked or plain paprika; 1 tsp granulated garlic or garlic powder; ¾ tsp kosher salt; ¾ tsp freshly ground black pepper; ¾ tsp granulated onion or onion powder; ¾ tsp crushed oregano; ¾ tsp crushed thyme; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper; 2 tbsp water; 6-8 oz small crimini or button mushrooms, halved or quartered; 3 tbsp light flavored olive oil (divided: 1 tbsp for seasoning, 2 tbsp for cooking); 2 tbsp fresh Italian parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredients

1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into ¾-1 inch pieces

6-8 oz small crimini or button mushrooms, halved or quartered

2 tbsp fresh Italian parsley, chopped

3 tbsp light flavored olive oil

1 tsp smoked or plain paprika

1 tsp granulated garlic or garlic powder

¾ tsp kosher salt

¾ tsp freshly ground black pepper

¾ tsp granulated onion or onion powder

¾ tsp crushed oregano

¾ tsp crushed thyme

¼ tsp cayenne pepper

2 tbsp water

Instructions

Step 1: Dice the chicken into ¾-1 inch pieces and place them in a medium bowl. In a separate container, combine paprika, granulated garlic, salt, pepper, granulated onion, oregano, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the spices, then pour the mixture over the chicken and toss until evenly coated. Let the chicken rest for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Sauté the chicken, stirring or turning constantly, until lightly browned and cooked through, about a few minutes. Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken tender. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, add the mushrooms and 2 tablespoons of water. Scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pan into the mushrooms. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and have absorbed the flavorful pan juices.

Step 4: Return the cooked chicken along with any juices back to the skillet with the mushrooms. Stir to combine everything well. Sprinkle with chopped Italian parsley and serve warm. These bites are delicious on their own or served over rice.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper slightly or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

Use boneless skinless chicken breasts as a leaner alternative, but be careful not to overcook them to keep the meat juicy.

Swap fresh Italian parsley with cilantro or chives for a different herbal flavor.

Serve with crusty bread or over cooked quinoa for a wholesome twist.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh Italian parsley?

Yes, you can substitute dried parsley, but use about one-third of the amount called for with fresh herbs since dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.