Cajun Chicken Garlic Bread

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 425°F (220 °C) (220°C (425 °F)). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Split the baguette lengthwise and place the halves cut-side up on the sheet.

2. 2

   Season the bite-size chicken pieces evenly with the Cajun seasoning. Set aside while the skillet heats.

3. 3

   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. The chicken should reach 165°F (74 °C) (74°C (165 °F)) internally. Remove the skillet from the heat.

   Start 7-minute timer
4. 4

   Add the softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley to a small bowl. Stir until evenly combined. Season lightly with salt and black pepper, keeping in mind that the Cajun seasoning and cheeses may already be salty.

5. 5

   Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the baguette. Make sure the butter reaches the edges so the bread browns evenly.

6. 6

   Spoon the cooked Cajun chicken evenly over the garlic-buttered bread halves.

7. 7

   Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar evenly over the chicken, covering the surface without piling the cheese too thickly in the center.

8. 8

   Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the bread is crisp around the edges and the cheese is fully melted and bubbling. For a more deeply browned top, switch to broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely so the bread does not burn.

   Start 12-minute timer
9. 9

   Let the garlic bread rest for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with additional chopped parsley, slice into portions, and serve hot.

   Start 3-minute timer