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Creamy Cajun Chicken Rice

Creamy Cajun Chicken Rice
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Creamy Cajun Chicken Rice is a flavorful one-pot meal combining tender chicken seasoned with bold Cajun spices, sautéed vegetables, fluffy rice, and a luscious creamy sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or to impress guests, this dish offers rich, spicy, and comforting flavors with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces

Spices & Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend (paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, dried herbs)

Rice & Grains

  • 1 cup long-grain rice (uncooked)

Dairy & Creaminess

  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Vegetables

  • 1 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Oils

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Season and Sear the Chicken: Generously season the chicken pieces with the Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until browned but not fully cooked. Remove chicken and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for approximately 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, building the base flavor.
  3. Cook the Rice: Stir the uncooked rice into the vegetables and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to lightly toast the rice, enhancing its flavor. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Combine and Simmer: Nestle the seared chicken pieces back into the skillet with the rice mixture. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
  5. Finish with Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese (if using). Allow the sauce to thicken slightly on low heat while stirring gently to achieve a rich, creamy texture. Remove from heat and let rest briefly before serving.

Notes

  • Use quality Cajun seasoning blends free of preservatives for the best flavor.
  • Don’t rush searing the chicken; browning adds important depth.
  • Lightly toasting the rice prevents mushiness and adds a nutty taste.
  • Keep heat low when adding cream to avoid curdling.
  • Let the dish rest off the heat for a few minutes to meld flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken, creamy rice, one-pot meal, spicy chicken, comfort food, easy dinner

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-rice/