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One-Pan Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet

A close-up of a white bowl filled with creamy Cajun Chicken Skillet with Rice, featuring orange-hued sauce and chunks of chicken.
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Make this hearty, flavorful Cajun chicken and rice dish entirely in one skillet. It features tender chicken breasts coated in a rich, spicy cream sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning blend (or more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces evenly with 1 teaspoon of the Cajun seasoning.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the same skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, remaining 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, thyme, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the uncooked rice, coating it in the vegetables and spices.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (with their liquid). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  6. Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of 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 Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  8. Let the dish rest, covered, for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For a deeper flavor, use a smoked sausage like andouille, sliced, and cook it with the chicken in step 2.
  • If the sauce seems too thick after adding the cream, add a splash more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
  • Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on the saltiness and spice level of your specific blend.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchnkudos.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-skillet-with-rice/