Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of the South with this Easy Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. In just under 45 minutes, you can create a hearty one-pan meal that features juicy chicken thighs, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic spices. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste, whether you prefer it mild or extra spicy. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s sure to impress your family and guests alike.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- 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
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika for extra flavor
- Chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for a bright finish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the chicken thighs with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well-coated. Set aside while you prepare the vegetables.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add diced onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add seasoned chicken thighs to the empty side of the pan. Cook for about 5–7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Stir in uncooked rice to combine with vegetables and chicken. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth along with an additional teaspoon of Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for about 20 minutes until rice is cooked through and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff rice with a fork before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg