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Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet Tasty Weeknight Meal

by on November 9, 2024

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Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? This Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet is the answer! Packed with flavor, it’s simple enough for any weeknight. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a meal that pleases everyone at the table. In this post, I’ll share easy steps, tips, and a few tasty twists. Get ready to spice up your dinner plans with this winner!

- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced - 1 cup long-grain rice - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 bell pepper, chopped - 1 small onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 cup diced tomatoes - 1 cup frozen peas - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Chopped fresh parsley for garnish Alternatives for chicken: You can use turkey or tofu if you want a change. Both can add great flavors. Choices for rice: Long-grain rice is best, but jasmine or basmati work well too. Each type brings its own taste and texture. Variations in seasoning: If you want less heat, try using mild Cajun seasoning or Italian herbs. You can also mix in some lemon zest for a fresh twist. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by preparing the chicken and vegetables. You will need two boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Dice the chicken into small pieces for even cooking. Chop one bell pepper and dice one small onion. Mince three cloves of garlic. These fresh ingredients make your dish flavorful and colorful. Next, let’s cover some essential cooking tips. Use a sharp knife for cutting. This makes your prep faster and safer. Always wash your vegetables under cold water. Clean hands and surfaces help prevent germs. Now, let’s move on to sautéing the chicken and vegetables. In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and one tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken turns golden brown. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and smell great. Next, it's time to cook the rice and integrate flavors. Add one cup of long-grain rice to the skillet. Stir well to coat the rice with the oil and veggies. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously. This step adds a nice nutty flavor. Pour in two cups of chicken broth and add one cup of diced tomatoes. Bring this mixture to a simmer. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. The rice will absorb the liquid and become tender. In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in one cup of frozen peas and the cooked chicken. Cover again and let it warm through for about 5 minutes. Taste your dish to see if it needs more salt or pepper before serving. This simple process creates a tasty Cajun chicken and rice skillet. Enjoy every bite! - Achieving the right texture for the chicken: Start with diced chicken breasts. Cook them over medium heat. This gives them a nice golden color. Stir often to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be juicy and tender when done. - Importance of resting the chicken after cooking: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle back in. When you slice it, the chicken will stay moist and flavorful. - How to adjust spiciness levels: If you like it spicy, add more Cajun seasoning. You can also mix in some cayenne pepper. For less heat, use less seasoning or add a dollop of sour cream when serving. - Suggestions for homemade Cajun seasoning: You can make your own Cajun seasoning. Combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, oregano, and black pepper. This mix can give you a fresh taste. Store it in a jar for later use. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can enhance the flavor significantly, making your dish more vibrant and delicious. Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your spice tolerance. Start with less and add more if needed. Let it Rest: After cooking, let the skillet sit covered for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together. Serve with Sides: Pair this dish with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to balance the spiciness and add texture. {{image_2}} You can switch up the proteins in this dish. Shrimp works great and adds a nice touch. You can also use sausage for a heartier flavor. Each option gives a different taste and texture. Feel free to swap the veggies too. If you like spice, try adding jalapeños or cayenne. Zucchini or spinach can also work well. Use what you enjoy or have on hand. This meal is flexible and fun to customize. If you want to save time, try the Instant Pot method. Just sauté the chicken and veggies, then add the other ingredients. Cook for about 10 minutes under high pressure. You will have a tasty meal in no time. An oven-baked version is also simple. After sautéing, transfer everything to a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes. This method gives the rice a nice, creamy texture. Each cooking style offers a unique twist to Cajun chicken and rice. To keep your Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet fresh, place leftovers in an airtight container. This method protects against moisture and odors. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before reheating. If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Be sure to leave some space at the top. This allows the dish to expand as it freezes. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Stir it well until heated through for the best taste. Can I use brown rice instead of white? Yes, you can use brown rice. However, it will take longer to cook. Adjust the liquid and timing. Brown rice typically needs more water and about 10-15 more minutes. What can I serve alongside this dish? I like to serve a simple salad or some crusty bread. A green salad adds freshness. Bread helps soak up the tasty sauce. How can I make this recipe gluten-free? To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free chicken broth. Check the Cajun seasoning for any gluten ingredients. Most brands are gluten-free, but it’s good to check. What to do if the rice is too dry or too wet? If the rice is too dry, add a bit of broth or water. Stir gently and heat on low. If it’s too wet, cook uncovered on low heat. This helps the excess liquid evaporate. How to store leftovers without losing flavor? Store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist. In this article, we explored how to make Cajun Chicken and Rice. We covered the key ingredients, easy steps to prepare, and advice for perfect cooking. You can customize this dish with various proteins and flavors. Remember, proper storage keeps your meal fresh. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe to find your favorite version. Cooking can be fun, so get creative in the kitchen! Your next flavorful dish awaits.

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavorful and Spicy: This dish packs a punch with bold Cajun spices that elevate the chicken and rice to a whole new level.
  2. One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one skillet means less cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  3. Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand.
  4. Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 40 minutes, this recipe is straightforward and perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.

Ingredients

Complete Ingredients List

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

– 1 cup long-grain rice

– 2 cups chicken broth

– 1 bell pepper, chopped

– 1 small onion, diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1 cup diced tomatoes

– 1 cup frozen peas

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Ingredient Substitutions

Alternatives for chicken: You can use turkey or tofu if you want a change. Both can add great flavors.

Choices for rice: Long-grain rice is best, but jasmine or basmati work well too. Each type brings its own taste and texture.

Variations in seasoning: If you want less heat, try using mild Cajun seasoning or Italian herbs. You can also mix in some lemon zest for a fresh twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps Overview

Start by preparing the chicken and vegetables. You will need two boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Dice the chicken into small pieces for even cooking. Chop one bell pepper and dice one small onion. Mince three cloves of garlic. These fresh ingredients make your dish flavorful and colorful.

Next, let’s cover some essential cooking tips. Use a sharp knife for cutting. This makes your prep faster and safer. Always wash your vegetables under cold water. Clean hands and surfaces help prevent germs.

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s move on to sautéing the chicken and vegetables. In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and one tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken turns golden brown.

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and smell great.

Next, it’s time to cook the rice and integrate flavors. Add one cup of long-grain rice to the skillet. Stir well to coat the rice with the oil and veggies. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously. This step adds a nice nutty flavor.

Pour in two cups of chicken broth and add one cup of diced tomatoes. Bring this mixture to a simmer. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. The rice will absorb the liquid and become tender.

In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in one cup of frozen peas and the cooked chicken. Cover again and let it warm through for about 5 minutes. Taste your dish to see if it needs more salt or pepper before serving.

This simple process creates a tasty Cajun chicken and rice skillet. Enjoy every bite!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips for Perfect Cajun Chicken

– Achieving the right texture for the chicken: Start with diced chicken breasts. Cook them over medium heat. This gives them a nice golden color. Stir often to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be juicy and tender when done.

– Importance of resting the chicken after cooking: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle back in. When you slice it, the chicken will stay moist and flavorful.

Flavor Enhancement Techniques

– How to adjust spiciness levels: If you like it spicy, add more Cajun seasoning. You can also mix in some cayenne pepper. For less heat, use less seasoning or add a dollop of sour cream when serving.

– Suggestions for homemade Cajun seasoning: You can make your own Cajun seasoning. Combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, oregano, and black pepper. This mix can give you a fresh taste. Store it in a jar for later use.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can enhance the flavor significantly, making your dish more vibrant and delicious.
  2. Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your spice tolerance. Start with less and add more if needed.
  3. Let it Rest: After cooking, let the skillet sit covered for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together.
  4. Serve with Sides: Pair this dish with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to balance the spiciness and add texture.

Variations

Alternative Ingredients

You can switch up the proteins in this dish. Shrimp works great and adds a nice touch. You can also use sausage for a heartier flavor. Each option gives a different taste and texture.

Feel free to swap the veggies too. If you like spice, try adding jalapeños or cayenne. Zucchini or spinach can also work well. Use what you enjoy or have on hand. This meal is flexible and fun to customize.

Cooking Method Variations

If you want to save time, try the Instant Pot method. Just sauté the chicken and veggies, then add the other ingredients. Cook for about 10 minutes under high pressure. You will have a tasty meal in no time.

An oven-baked version is also simple. After sautéing, transfer everything to a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes. This method gives the rice a nice, creamy texture. Each cooking style offers a unique twist to Cajun chicken and rice.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To keep your Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet fresh, place leftovers in an airtight container. This method protects against moisture and odors. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before reheating.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Be sure to leave some space at the top. This allows the dish to expand as it freezes. You can freeze it for up to three months.

When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Stir it well until heated through for the best taste.

FAQs

Common Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, you can use brown rice. However, it will take longer to cook. Adjust the liquid and timing. Brown rice typically needs more water and about 10-15 more minutes.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

I like to serve a simple salad or some crusty bread. A green salad adds freshness. Bread helps soak up the tasty sauce.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free chicken broth. Check the Cajun seasoning for any gluten ingredients. Most brands are gluten-free, but it’s good to check.

Troubleshooting Queries

What to do if the rice is too dry or too wet?

If the rice is too dry, add a bit of broth or water. Stir gently and heat on low. If it’s too wet, cook uncovered on low heat. This helps the excess liquid evaporate.

How to store leftovers without losing flavor?

Store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist.

In this article, we explored how to make Cajun Chicken and Rice. We covered the key ingredients, easy steps to prepare, and advice for perfect cooking. You can customize this dish with various proteins and flavors. Remember, proper storage keeps your meal fresh. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe to find your favorite version. Cooking can be fun, so get creative in the kitchen! Your next flavorful dish await

- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced - 1 cup long-grain rice - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 bell pepper, chopped - 1 small onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 cup diced tomatoes - 1 cup frozen peas - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Chopped fresh parsley for garnish Alternatives for chicken: You can use turkey or tofu if you want a change. Both can add great flavors. Choices for rice: Long-grain rice is best, but jasmine or basmati work well too. Each type brings its own taste and texture. Variations in seasoning: If you want less heat, try using mild Cajun seasoning or Italian herbs. You can also mix in some lemon zest for a fresh twist. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by preparing the chicken and vegetables. You will need two boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Dice the chicken into small pieces for even cooking. Chop one bell pepper and dice one small onion. Mince three cloves of garlic. These fresh ingredients make your dish flavorful and colorful. Next, let’s cover some essential cooking tips. Use a sharp knife for cutting. This makes your prep faster and safer. Always wash your vegetables under cold water. Clean hands and surfaces help prevent germs. Now, let’s move on to sautéing the chicken and vegetables. In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and one tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken turns golden brown. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and smell great. Next, it's time to cook the rice and integrate flavors. Add one cup of long-grain rice to the skillet. Stir well to coat the rice with the oil and veggies. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously. This step adds a nice nutty flavor. Pour in two cups of chicken broth and add one cup of diced tomatoes. Bring this mixture to a simmer. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. The rice will absorb the liquid and become tender. In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in one cup of frozen peas and the cooked chicken. Cover again and let it warm through for about 5 minutes. Taste your dish to see if it needs more salt or pepper before serving. This simple process creates a tasty Cajun chicken and rice skillet. Enjoy every bite! - Achieving the right texture for the chicken: Start with diced chicken breasts. Cook them over medium heat. This gives them a nice golden color. Stir often to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be juicy and tender when done. - Importance of resting the chicken after cooking: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle back in. When you slice it, the chicken will stay moist and flavorful. - How to adjust spiciness levels: If you like it spicy, add more Cajun seasoning. You can also mix in some cayenne pepper. For less heat, use less seasoning or add a dollop of sour cream when serving. - Suggestions for homemade Cajun seasoning: You can make your own Cajun seasoning. Combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, oregano, and black pepper. This mix can give you a fresh taste. Store it in a jar for later use. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can enhance the flavor significantly, making your dish more vibrant and delicious. Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your spice tolerance. Start with less and add more if needed. Let it Rest: After cooking, let the skillet sit covered for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together. Serve with Sides: Pair this dish with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to balance the spiciness and add texture. {{image_2}} You can switch up the proteins in this dish. Shrimp works great and adds a nice touch. You can also use sausage for a heartier flavor. Each option gives a different taste and texture. Feel free to swap the veggies too. If you like spice, try adding jalapeños or cayenne. Zucchini or spinach can also work well. Use what you enjoy or have on hand. This meal is flexible and fun to customize. If you want to save time, try the Instant Pot method. Just sauté the chicken and veggies, then add the other ingredients. Cook for about 10 minutes under high pressure. You will have a tasty meal in no time. An oven-baked version is also simple. After sautéing, transfer everything to a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes. This method gives the rice a nice, creamy texture. Each cooking style offers a unique twist to Cajun chicken and rice. To keep your Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet fresh, place leftovers in an airtight container. This method protects against moisture and odors. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before reheating. If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Be sure to leave some space at the top. This allows the dish to expand as it freezes. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Stir it well until heated through for the best taste. Can I use brown rice instead of white? Yes, you can use brown rice. However, it will take longer to cook. Adjust the liquid and timing. Brown rice typically needs more water and about 10-15 more minutes. What can I serve alongside this dish? I like to serve a simple salad or some crusty bread. A green salad adds freshness. Bread helps soak up the tasty sauce. How can I make this recipe gluten-free? To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free chicken broth. Check the Cajun seasoning for any gluten ingredients. Most brands are gluten-free, but it’s good to check. What to do if the rice is too dry or too wet? If the rice is too dry, add a bit of broth or water. Stir gently and heat on low. If it’s too wet, cook uncovered on low heat. This helps the excess liquid evaporate. How to store leftovers without losing flavor? Store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist. In this article, we explored how to make Cajun Chicken and Rice. We covered the key ingredients, easy steps to prepare, and advice for perfect cooking. You can customize this dish with various proteins and flavors. Remember, proper storage keeps your meal fresh. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe to find your favorite version. Cooking can be fun, so get creative in the kitchen! Your next flavorful dish awaits.

Spicy Cajun Chicken & Rice Skillet

A flavorful one-pan dish featuring Cajun seasoned chicken, rice, and vegetables.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 piece bell pepper (red or green), chopped
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish chopped fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
  • Add the rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat it with the vegetables and oil. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  • Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  • In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas and the cooked chicken. Cover again and let it warm through for about 5 minutes.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Notes

Serve in the skillet or transfer to a serving dish, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy with a slice of crusty bread on the side!
Keyword cajun, chicken, rice, skillet, spicy

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