If you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with flavor and offers a creamy, comforting taste in every bite, then this Creamy Cajun Chicken Rice is just what you need. With the perfect blend of Cajun spices mixed into tender chicken and creamy rice, this meal will become a family favorite. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any night of the week!
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into thin strips
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Chopping board
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Rice – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients together. Proper preparation is key to a smooth cooking process. Chop your bell pepper and onion, mince the garlic, and cut your chicken breast into thin strips. Having everything prepped before you start cooking will make the process more enjoyable and efficient.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken strips. Season them with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then toss in the diced bell pepper, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Sauté these vegetables until they’re tender and the onions turn translucent. This should take about 5 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
Add the rice to the skillet with the vegetables, stirring to coat it well with the oil and juices. Let it cook for about 2 minutes to slightly toast the rice. Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well, ensuring the rice is evenly submerged in the liquid, and bring it to a light bubble.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the rice and vegetables. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and allow it to simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Serve
If desired, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and replace the lid. Allow the cheese to melt before serving. Once everything is ready, give it a final stir, adjust the seasoning as needed, and serve hot. Enjoy the creamy, rich flavors of this hearty meal!
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Rice
Serve your Creamy Cajun Chicken Rice hot, directly from the skillet for a rustic family-style meal. Pair it with a fresh green salad to balance the rich flavors. It’s also delightful with a side of crusty bread to scoop up the creamy sauce.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapenos during the vegetable sauté step. If you find the dish too creamy, reduce the amount of heavy cream slightly. Always taste before serving to make sure the seasoning is to your liking.
High-Protein Version: Power-Up Your Creamy Cajun Chicken Rice
To ramp up the protein, add some cooked shrimp or sliced sausage to the mix. Opt for a high-protein rice variety, or even add lentils or quinoa for a protein boost. This change doesn’t just enhance the nutritional profile but also introduces new layers of flavor.
Low-Carb Delight: Keto-Friendly Creamy Cajun Chicken Delight
If you’re cutting carbs, swap out the rice for cauliflower rice. It absorbs the flavors beautifully and maintains that creamy taste without the extra carbs. Using cream cheese instead of heavy cream can also cut carbs while adding to the creaminess.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of cream or milk while reheating to retain the creamy texture.
FAQs
- Can I use another type of cheese? Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese. Cheddar and mozzarella work well.
- Is it possible to make this dish vegan? You can substitute chicken with tofu or a plant-based protein and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- What can I use instead of Cajun seasoning? A mixture of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, and oregano can be used as a substitute.
- Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for more nutritional value.
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Creamy Cajun Chicken Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- olive oil
- chicken breast
- Cajun seasoning
- long-grain rice
- chicken broth
- heavy cream
- bell pepper
- onion
- garlic
- shredded cheese
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Gather all your ingredients together. Proper preparation is key to a smooth cooking process. Chop your bell pepper and onion, mince the garlic, and cut your chicken breast into thin strips.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken strips and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then add the diced bell pepper, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Sauté until vegetables are tender and the onions turn translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add rice to the skillet with the vegetables, stir to coat the rice with the oil and juices, and cook for 2 minutes. Then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, replace the lid, and allow the cheese to melt before serving. Stir well, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.