Oven-Roasted Cajun Chicken and Garlic Potatoes with Parmesan

Name: Oven-Roasted Cajun Chicken and Garlic Potatoes with Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs; 1.5 pounds baby red or Yukon gold potatoes 3 tablespoons olive oil 4 cloves garlic minced; 1.5 tablespoons Cajun seasoning 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

by Nina Johnson August 24, 2025

If you love bold, spicy flavors and hearty comfort food, Oven-Roasted Cajun Chicken and Garlic Potatoes with Parmesan is your perfect match. This one-pan dish delivers crispy golden potatoes and juicy chicken bites wrapped in a smoky Cajun seasoning and finished with a sprinkle of nutty parmesan. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its bold flavor, but in how effortlessly it comes together. No fussy prep, just straight-up roasted goodness.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual get-together, it’s a dish that looks as incredible as it tastes. The contrast of the caramelized potato edges, vibrant Cajun spice, and melted parmesan on top makes every bite crave-worthy. Pair it with a light salad or just dive in as-is—either way, it’s going to be a hit.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

For best results, go for baby red or Yukon gold potatoes. Their creamy centers and thin skins crisp up beautifully when roasted, making them ideal for this dish. Cut them into even-sized chunks so they cook evenly alongside the chicken.

Ingredients for the Oven-Roasted Cajun Chicken and Garlic Potatoes with Parmesan

Chicken breast or thighs: Use boneless, skinless cuts for quicker cooking and maximum seasoning coverage.
Baby red or Yukon gold potatoes: Their waxy texture ensures they hold up well during roasting.
Olive oil: Helps everything crisp up and locks in moisture.
Garlic (minced): Infuses the chicken and potatoes with warm, savory flavor.
Cajun seasoning: The star of this dish—smoky, spicy, and aromatic.
Paprika: Enhances the color and deepens the flavor.
Salt and pepper: For balance and to bring out all the flavors.
Parmesan cheese (grated): Adds a salty, umami-rich finish.
Fresh parsley: Optional, but brightens the dish with freshness and color.

How To Make the Oven-Roasted Cajun Chicken and Garlic Potatoes with Parmesan

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Wash and dry the potatoes, then chop them into evenly sized chunks. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes.

Step 2: Season Everything Generously

In a large bowl, combine the chicken and potatoes. Add olive oil, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything well to ensure every piece is evenly coated in the seasoning.

Step 3: Arrange on the Sheet Pan

Spread the seasoned chicken and potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded—this helps everything crisp up beautifully.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Place the sheet pan in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Flip everything halfway through for even browning. The chicken should be fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F) and the potatoes golden and crispy on the edges.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Parsley

Once out of the oven, sprinkle grated parmesan over the hot chicken and potatoes so it melts slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and brightness.

How to Serve and Store This Spicy Favorite

Serve Oven-Roasted Cajun Chicken and Garlic Potatoes hot, straight out of the oven. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to mellow out the spice.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to retain the crispness, or use an air fryer if you have one. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the potatoes soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning has a kick, but it varies by brand. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount and taste as you go.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes work great here and offer a sweet contrast to the spicy Cajun flavors.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make a quick blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes—thighs offer more flavor and tend to stay juicy. Just make sure they’re boneless and cut into similar-sized chunks.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Let it cool, portion it, and freeze in airtight containers. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Is it okay to prep this ahead?

Definitely. You can season the chicken and potatoes in advance and keep them in the fridge. Just spread on the baking sheet when ready and roast.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this spicy roasted chicken and potatoes combo, here are a few more recipes to explore:

Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a creamy twist.
One Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta for that tangy heat kick.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli for a cozy pasta night.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes if you want something more savory and mellow.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for another weeknight favorite.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the Cajun or keep it mild? Add any sides or sauces that made it next level?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Find even more daily recipes on my Pinterest – Life with Nina