Print

Creamy Cajun Chicken Rice

Creamy Cajun Chicken Rice
Print Recipe

Creamy Cajun Chicken Rice is a comforting, flavorful one-pot meal made with tender Cajun-spiced chicken, fluffy long-grain white rice, sautéed bell peppers and onions, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this Southern-inspired dish boasts a rich, smoky, and spicy profile that’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want an easy, hearty dinner with a bold twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Grains

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice

Vegetables

  • 1 medium bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids

  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half

Fats

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Spices & Herbs

  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, herbs)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Reduce heat to medium in the same skillet. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and aromatic, absorbing the flavorful chicken drippings.
  3. Cook the Rice: Add the long-grain white rice to the skillet with vegetables and stir to coat. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  4. Stir in the Cream: Once the rice is cooked, slowly stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half off heat to create a rich and creamy texture without curdling.
  5. Combine and Serve: Slice the rested chicken into strips or cubes and fold gently into the creamy rice mixture. Warm through for 1 to 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh Cajun seasoning to maximize flavor intensity.
  • Watch the rice carefully while simmering to avoid mushiness.
  • Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain juiciness.
  • Stir in cream off heat to prevent curdling and maintain smoothness.
  • Adjust spice levels to taste by modifying Cajun seasoning or adding cayenne/hot sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken, creamy rice, one-pot meal, quick dinner, spicy chicken rice, Southern cuisine

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