Easy Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe

• servings: 4 servings
• active time: 10 minutes
• total time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

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

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

¼ tsp smoked paprika for extra flavor

Chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (optional, for a bright finish)

Directions

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.

Nutrition

• Calories: 430 kcal