Cajun Chicken and Rice – A One-Pot Spicy Southern Favorite
Bold, spicy, and irresistibly comforting — this Cajun Chicken and Rice recipe brings the taste of Louisiana right to your kitchen.
Made with tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, fluffy rice, and a perfectly seasoned Cajun blend, this hearty one-pot meal delivers layers of smoky, spicy flavor in every bite. It’s a complete dinner that’s ready in under an hour, packed with protein, and ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Whether you’re a fan of Southern cooking or just love bold, soul-warming meals, this dish will instantly earn a spot in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🌶️ One pot, one cleanup: Easy cooking and minimal mess.
- 🍗 Bold Cajun flavor: Smoky paprika, garlic, and peppers bring heat and depth.
- 🕒 Quick and simple: Ready in about 40 minutes.
- 🍚 Family favorite: Balanced spice that everyone can enjoy.
- 💡 Versatile: Add sausage, shrimp, or extra veggies for variety.
This Cajun Chicken and Rice is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something unforgettable.
What is Cajun Cuisine?
Cajun food comes from the Acadian settlers who moved from Canada to Louisiana, blending French techniques with Southern ingredients. The result? Comforting, spicy, deeply flavorful dishes built from the “holy trinity” — onions, celery, and bell peppers — and seasoned with smoky spices like paprika, cayenne, and thyme.
This Cajun Chicken and Rice pays homage to that heritage, capturing the rich flavors of the South in a simple weeknight recipe.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Rice:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 ½ cups long-grain rice (uncooked)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp thyme
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1 – Season and Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season chicken pieces generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side, until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 2 – Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, then add onion, bell peppers, and garlic.
Cook for 5 minutes until softened and aromatic.
This step builds the flavor base — the true essence of Cajun cooking.
Step 3 – Toast the Rice
Add rice directly to the pan and stir for 1–2 minutes to coat the grains in oil and seasoning.
Toasting the rice enhances flavor and keeps the grains from clumping during cooking.
Step 4 – Add Liquid and Tomatoes
Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir in smoked paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper if using.
Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5 – Combine and Cook
Return the seared chicken (and any juices) to the pan. Stir well, then reduce heat to low.
Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 6 – Fluff and Serve
Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Serve hot and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Cajun Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear until browned, then remove.
- Add more oil and sauté onion, bell peppers, and garlic until soft.
- Stir in rice and toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, thyme, and cayenne. Stir and bring to a simmer.
- Return chicken to pan. Cover and simmer 20–25 minutes until rice is tender.
- Fluff rice, garnish with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Cajun Chicken and Rice
✅ Use long-grain rice: It absorbs flavor beautifully and stays fluffy.
✅ Don’t over-stir while simmering: Let the rice cook undisturbed to avoid mushiness.
✅ Taste as you go: Cajun seasoning varies in spice; adjust to your preference.
✅ Add sausage for extra depth: Andouille sausage pairs perfectly with chicken.
✅ Finish with lemon juice: It brightens and balances the spicy flavor.
Variations
- Cajun Chicken and Sausage: Add 6 oz sliced andouille or smoked sausage.
- Shrimp and Chicken Cajun Rice: Stir in shrimp during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice: Mix in ¼ cup heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for richness.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chickpeas or tofu for chicken and use vegetable broth.
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice, adding it during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
What to Serve With Cajun Chicken and Rice
This dish is complete on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:
- Cornbread or garlic bread
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed or roasted vegetables
- Sweet iced tea or lemonade
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make Ahead:
Prepare the dish fully, cool completely, and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheat:
Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the rice.
Freeze:
Store in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Healthier Cajun Chicken and Rice
For a lighter version:
- Use brown rice (increase liquid slightly and cook longer).
- Choose lean chicken breast or chicken tenderloins.
- Use low-sodium broth and reduce added salt.
- Add extra veggies — like corn, peas, or zucchini.
You’ll still get that signature Cajun punch without sacrificing balance or flavor.
The Secret to Authentic Cajun Flavor
The secret lies in the Cajun seasoning blend. A great one usually includes:
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cayenne
- Thyme
- Oregano
- Black pepper
If you prefer making your own, combine 2 tablespoons paprika, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon cayenne, 1 teaspoon thyme, and 1 teaspoon oregano. Store in a jar and shake before each use!
Fun Fact
Did you know?
The traditional Cajun “holy trinity” — onions, bell peppers, and celery — is the Southern cousin to the French mirepoix (onion, carrot, and celery). It’s the aromatic base for countless Louisiana dishes, including gumbo, jambalaya, and étouffée.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 460 | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 95mg | Sodium: 880mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g
Final Thoughts
Cajun Chicken and Rice is one of those dishes that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. Every bite bursts with smoky, spicy flavor — the perfect blend of comfort and excitement.
It’s a dish that reminds us of the heart of Southern cooking: simple, soulful, and made with love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this one-pot wonder delivers every time.
Grab your skillet and a spoon — and get ready to taste a little Louisiana magic!
