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cajun chicken and rice

Easy Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe

This Cajun Chicken and Rice is a one-pan dinner packed with bold spices, juicy chicken, and perfectly seasoned rice. It’s easy to make, comes together in under 45 minutes, and delivers serious Southern comfort.
With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to weeknight dinner the whole family will love.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun, Southern
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 430 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 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

For the Rice and Veggies:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
  • 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

Optional:

  • ¼ tsp smoked paprika for extra flavor

For Serving:

  • Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
  • Lemon wedges optional, for a bright finish

Instructions
 

Season the Chicken

  • In a bowl, toss the chicken thighs with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Sear the Chicken

  • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside (they don’t need to be fully cooked yet).

Sauté the Veggies

  • In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp more oil. Sauté the diced onion and bell peppers for about 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Toast the Rice

  • Add the uncooked rice to the skillet. Stir and toast for 1 minute to absorb the flavors.

Add Broth and Seasoning

  • Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the additional 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (and optional smoked paprika). Stir to combine.

Simmer with Chicken

  • Nestle the seared chicken pieces back into the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20–25 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Rest and Serve

  • Remove from heat. Let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice, garnish with parsley or green onions, and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Keyword Cajun Chicken and Rice