Cajun chicken garlic bread

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, halved lengthwise and pounded to an even thickness
• salt
• 2 tsp smoked paprika powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsp oil for cooking
• 2 tbsp fresh garlic, finely minced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/3 cup red bell peppers, finely diced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup unsweetened heavy whipping cream
• salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tbsp fresh garlic, finely minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 loaf Italian bread, halved lengthwise
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese

Steps

1. Season the chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, and salt.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through.
3. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter.
5. Add garlic, red onion, and red bell pepper; sauté until softened.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with black pepper, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.
7. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
8. Finish the sauce with lemon juice.
9. Mix together the softened butter, garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese to make the garlic butter.
10. Preheat oven to 400°F.
11. Spread the garlic butter over the bread and bake for 5–7 minutes until lightly toasted.
12. Spoon over the Cajun sauce, top with mozzarella cheese and sliced chicken, then finish with more sauce.
13. Bake for 8–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
14. Broil for 1–2 minutes if desired.
15. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.