Name: Easy Cajun Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1/2 cup onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

This Easy Cajun Chicken and Rice is a bold, flavorful one-pan dish that combines tender Cajun-seasoned chicken with perfectly cooked rice, making it a quick and satisfying meal. Packed with savory goodness and just the right amount of spice, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or any time you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1/2 cup onion, chopped

1 bell pepper, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups chicken broth

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

I season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides, then add them to the skillet. I cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Once done, I remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, I add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until they soften.

I add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant.

I stir in the rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). I bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

I return the chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the rice. I cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

Finally, I garnish the dish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can easily throw in extra veggies like zucchini or spinach to boost the nutritional value of the dish.

Switch Up the Protein: If I’m not in the mood for chicken, I can swap it with shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a different take on this recipe.

Spice Level: I can adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper or by choosing a milder Cajun seasoning blend.

Storage/Reheating

I love how this dish stores well for leftovers. To store it, I transfer the chicken and rice into an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I’m ready to reheat, I simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, I can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. I’d recommend adding an extra 1/2 cup of broth and simmering for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! I can prepare the entire dish, then store it in the fridge until I’m ready to serve. It’s perfect for meal prepping and tastes great as leftovers.

Can I make this dish spicier?

If I love heat, I can add more cayenne pepper or use a spicier Cajun seasoning blend. I can also include chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

While I can use frozen chicken breasts, I would recommend thawing them first for even cooking. If I don’t have time to thaw, I’d need to cook them longer.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, if I prefer a vegetarian version or want to keep it plant-based, I can substitute vegetable broth without affecting the flavor too much.

Conclusion

This Easy Cajun Chicken and Rice has quickly become one of my go-to recipes. It’s simple to prepare, full of flavor, and only requires one pan, making it perfect for a stress-free weeknight dinner. Whether I’m cooking for myself or for a group, it’s always a hit. The bold Cajun spices bring the chicken to life, and the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors, making each bite comforting and satisfying. If I’m looking for a meal that’s quick, delicious, and packed with flavor, this is the one I always come back to!

Recipe:

Easy Cajun Chicken and Rice

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Easy Cajun Chicken and Rice is a bold, flavorful one-pan dish that combines tender Cajun-seasoned chicken with perfectly cooked rice, making it a quick and satisfying meal.