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One-Pan Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice

Close-up of flavorful Cajun chicken pieces mixed with rice and sauce, garnished heavily with fresh parsley.
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Make this easy, flavorful Cajun chicken and rice dish in one pan. It features tender chicken coated in bold spices and creamy sauce, ready for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces evenly with 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the uncooked rice, coating it in the spices and oil. Cook for 1 minute.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  6. Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  8. Let the dish rest, covered, for 5 minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before you serve your bold spice chicken meal.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other dry spices.
  • If you prefer chicken thighs, use boneless, skinless thighs and adjust the initial cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through before adding the rice.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenslang.com/easy-one-pan-creamy-cajun-chicken-rice/