One-Pan Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe – Quick, Flavorful & Easy Meal

One-Pan Cajun Chicken and Rice is the perfect recipe for anyone looking for a flavorful, filling meal that is easy to make. With tender pieces of chicken, aromatic Cajun seasoning, colorful bell peppers, and fluffy rice, this dish brings the heat and excitement to your dinner table. Plus, it’s all cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Why You’ll Love One-Pan Cajun Chicken and Rice

If you’re craving a hearty meal with bold flavors and an easy clean-up process, One-Pan Cajun Chicken and Rice is the answer. This dish combines protein, veggies, and carbs, all in one delicious pan. The Cajun spices give a subtle heat that can be adjusted according to your preference.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday dinner, something to impress your family or guests, or a way to use up some chicken, this recipe has you covered. It’s easy to customize based on what you have in your pantry or fridge, and best of all, it’s packed with flavor.

The Ingredients You Need for Cajun Chicken and Rice

To make One-Pan Cajun Chicken and Rice, you’ll need a combination of staple ingredients that come together for a memorable dish. The good news is, most of these items are pantry essentials or common grocery store finds.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 green bell pepper (diced)
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

These simple yet flavorful ingredients will transform your chicken and rice into a dish bursting with color and spice.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

• Cajun Seasoning: This spice mix is the heart of the dish. It brings together paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano. These ingredients work together to create that signature Cajun flavor profile that makes this meal so irresistible.
• Chicken: We use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a quick cook time and lean protein. However, thighs work just as well and offer more juiciness.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice is used for its fluffy texture and quick cooking time. You could opt for brown rice for a heartier, whole-grain alternative, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Bell Peppers: Red and green bell peppers add a sweet crunch that balances the heat from the Cajun seasoning.
• Tomatoes: The diced tomatoes bring a bit of moisture and acidity that complements the other ingredients, ensuring the dish is not too dry.

How to Make One-Pan Cajun Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking and a nice sear. Season the chicken with half of the Cajun seasoning. The seasoning adds an instant depth of flavor as the chicken browns, creating a delicious base for the rest of the dish.

Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes, ensuring that it is browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. This step helps to lock in the juices and flavors in the chicken while it cooks in the broth later.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the onion and bell peppers for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. This process allows the vegetables to release their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Garlic adds an aromatic layer to the dish that pairs perfectly with the Cajun seasoning.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Seasonings

Now, it’s time to toast the rice. Stir the rice into the vegetables and cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the grains to absorb the oil and flavors of the vegetables and spices. Toasting the rice helps to enhance its flavor, making it more aromatic once it’s cooked in the broth.

Add the remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.

Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, cover, and let everything simmer for 20–25 minutes. This step allows the rice to absorb the flavors of the Cajun spices, chicken, and broth.

Once the rice is fully cooked and the liquid has been absorbed, the dish is ready for the final touch.

Step 5: Final Touches

For an extra creamy touch, sprinkle shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese on top of the hot dish. Cover the skillet for a minute or two to allow the cheese to melt and form a gooey layer on top of the rice.

Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley to add a burst of color and freshness.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Fluff the rice and serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread or a refreshing salad for added texture and flavor.

FAQs About One-Pan Cajun Chicken and Rice

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. You’ll need to add extra liquid and cook it for about 40-45 minutes instead of the usual 20-25 minutes.

2. Can I make this dish spicier?

If you enjoy a spicier meal, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or use hot sauce in place of some of the chicken broth. Additionally, you could add a diced jalapeño during the vegetable sauté for an extra kick.

3. Can I substitute the chicken breasts with chicken thighs?

Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They will add a little more richness and juiciness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time if necessary.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, One-Pan Cajun Chicken and Rice can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The flavors even get better as they meld together.

5. What can I serve with Cajun Chicken and Rice?

This dish is hearty enough to be served on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh green salad, some crispy cornbread, or even a side of sautéed greens like spinach or kale.

Conclusion

One-Pan Cajun Chicken and Rice is a perfect combination of flavorful spices, tender chicken, and fluffy rice that everyone will love. This easy-to-make dish brings bold flavors to your table with minimal prep and cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

So, next time you’re looking for a satisfying and flavorful meal, try this Cajun chicken recipe. It’s everything you need in one pan—tasty, hearty, and convenient. Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to share the love with those around you!

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