Description
This Cajun Chicken and Rice is a one-pan dinner packed with bold spices, juicy chicken, and perfectly seasoned rice. It’s easy to make, comes together in under 45 minutes, and delivers serious Southern comfort.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- For the Rice and Veggies:
- 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- 1 small yellow onion diced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup long grain white rice uncooked
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- Optional:
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika for extra flavor
- For Serving:
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
- Lemon wedges optional, for a bright finish
Instructions
1. In a bowl, toss the chicken thighs with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside (they don’t need to be fully cooked yet).
3. In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp more oil. Sauté the diced onion and bell peppers for about 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet. Stir and toast for 1 minute to absorb the flavors.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the additional 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (and optional smoked paprika). Stir to combine.
6. Nestle the seared chicken pieces back into the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20–25 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
7. Remove from heat. Let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice, garnish with parsley or green onions, and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
This dish works well with either chicken thighs or breasts.
For more heat, add cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning.
Make it a complete meal by serving with a side salad or crusty bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg