Name: Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil; 4 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, cut into bite size pieces; 1 teaspoon Salt; ½ teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 Small Yellow Onion, diced; 1 Red Bell Pepper, diced; 1 Green Bell Pepper, diced; 2 cloves Garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon minced garlic); 1 ½ cups Long Grain White Rice; 1 ½ Tablespoons Cajun Seasoning; 1 teaspoon Paprika; 1 Tablespoon Butter; 3 cups Chicken Broth; Fresh Parsley, chopped

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 5 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and comforting textures, this Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe is a fantastic choice to bring a little Southern charm to your table. Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces perfectly seasoned with Cajun spices, mingling with vibrant bell peppers and fluffy, flavorful rice—all cooked together in one skillet for maximum taste and minimal fuss. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying, colorful meal that feels both wholesome and a little indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a set of ingredients placed on a white marbled surface. There is a total of eleven clear glass bowls and dishes containing different items. At the center is a rectangular glass container filled with raw, cubed light pink chicken pieces. Surrounding it are round glass bowls holding chopped white onions, diced green bell peppers, diced red bell peppers, minced garlic, white rice grains, and small portions of different spices and seasonings including a mix of salt and pepper, a reddish spice, and a brown spice blend. There is also a small round bowl with a square of butter, a small round bowl with a golden liquid that looks like olive oil, and a larger measuring cup filled with light brown broth. The overall layout is neat, with the ingredients organized in a balanced way. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, each playing a crucial role in delivering the signature flavor and appealing texture of this dish. From the fresh veggies adding crunch and color, to the Cajun seasoning that gives it that irresistible kick, everything works together beautifully.

Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that helps cook the chicken and soften the vegetables while adding a nice subtle flavor.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and even seasoning absorption.
Salt: Essential to enhance all the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Black Pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth that balances the Cajun spices.
Small Yellow Onion: Diced, it brings sweetness and aroma that deepen the dish’s complexity.
Red Bell Pepper: Diced for a pop of bright color and subtle sweetness.
Green Bell Pepper: Also diced, it provides a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the spices.
Garlic Cloves: Minced to infuse a pungent, savory note vital to many Cajun dishes.
Long Grain White Rice: The starchy base that soaks up all the flavorful liquids.
Cajun Seasoning: The star of the show, this blend of spices packs a punch of flavor with just the right amount of heat.
Paprika: Adds smoky warmth and a rich red hue, enhancing the dish visually and in taste.
Butter: Offers a creamy richness that rounds out the bold spices.
Chicken Broth: Used instead of water for cooking the rice, it deepens the savory profile significantly.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped for garnish, providing a fresh, bright finish that balances the dish.

How to Make Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat to get that perfect sear. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook them for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally so they brown evenly and stay juicy. This step seals in the moisture and begins developing the flavors that make this dish unforgettable.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Once the chicken has a bit of color, toss in the diced onion plus both red and green bell peppers. These vibrant veggies not only bring color to the dish but also provide a tender crunch and natural sweetness to balance the spices. Sauté everything together for about 3 to 5 minutes until the onions turn translucent and peppers soften just right.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Rice

Stir in the minced garlic, long grain white rice, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and a pat of butter for richness. The garlic releases its aroma, and the rice begins to absorb the spices. Make sure to mix everything well so each grain gets a coating of that flavorful seasoning blend, which forms the heart of the Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet tightly and let it cook on low heat for about 20 to 25 minutes. This slow simmer allows the rice to cook perfectly while soaking up all the wonderful juices, ensuring every bite is tender, fluffy, and bursting with Cajun goodness.

Step 5: Let it Rest and Garnish

After the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, remove the lid and let the dish sit for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and any remaining liquid to be absorbed. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top to add a fresh, vibrant touch that contrasts the warm, spicy base.

How to Serve Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe

A white pan filled with a rice dish that has yellow and light brown cooked rice mixed with small pieces of light beige chicken and bright red bell pepper bits, topped with chopped green herbs. A wooden spoon rests inside the pan lifting a scoop of the dish. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface with fresh green parsley on the left, a wooden bowl holding a green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and a brown onion above it. On the right side, a small bowl of chopped green herbs and a few stacked white plates with wooden-handled forks on top sit nearby. A white towel with a black grid pattern is partially under the pan. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic garnish, offering a bright herbal note that pairs perfectly with the bold Cajun spices. For an extra touch, you could add thinly sliced green onions or a few dashes of hot sauce if you like things a little spicier. These simple toppings transform the dish from everyday to restaurant-worthy in seconds.

Side Dishes

Keep your sides light and complementary. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe, while roasted or steamed green beans offer a fresh, crunchy balance. For a bit of indulgence, creamy coleslaw is a wonderful cool contrast to the warm, spicy skillet meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style experience that feels inviting and cozy. For a more formal feel, plate individual servings and garnish each with extra parsley and a lemon wedge to add a splash of brightness. Alternatively, spice things up by layering the rice and chicken in a hollowed bell pepper for a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish is cooled to room temperature before sealing to keep the rice’s texture intact and prevent excess moisture buildup, which can make it soggy.

Freezing

This Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. When properly wrapped, the flavors stay vibrant, and it makes for an easy meal prep option that’s ready when you need it most.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave covered for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even warming without drying out the rice or chicken.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice can add a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust cooking time to about 40-45 minutes and increase broth accordingly for the best results in the Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, it works wonderfully for meal prepping. Since it reheats well and stays flavorful, cooking a big batch means you can enjoy this Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe multiple times throughout the week with minimal effort.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning blend you use. Typically, it has a moderate heat with comforting warmth rather than extreme spiciness. You can always adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning or add hot sauce to suit your personal preference.

Can I make this recipe in a crockpot or Instant Pot?

Yes! For a crockpot, brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables first, then combine all ingredients and cook on low for 3-4 hours. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function for the first steps, then pressure cook for about 8 minutes before naturally releasing the pressure to finish cooking the rice perfectly.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make a simple substitute by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and thyme. This DIY blend will capture the essence of Cajun flavors and keeps the dish authentic without needing a premade mix.

Final Thoughts

If you want a recipe that’s both approachable and packed with unforgettable flavor, this Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe is it. The way the spices, veggies, chicken, and rice come together is pure magic in one skillet. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe delivers comfort and excitement with every bite. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite weeknight meal!