Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet

Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet is a one-pan Southern-inspired dish packed with bold flavors, tender chicken, and spicy, seasoned rice. The dish is infused with smoky, garlicky Cajun spices, bell peppers, and onions, creating a rich and satisfying meal. This easy, 40-minute dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and can be customized for extra heat!

For the Cajun Chicken

2 large chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized cubes)

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Rice

1 cup long-grain rice (white or jasmine)

2 tbsp olive oil

½ onion (diced)

1 red bell pepper (diced)

1 green bell pepper (diced)

2 cloves cloves garlic (minced)

1 tsp Cajun seasoning

½ tsp smoked paprika

¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

2 cups chicken broth

½ cup diced tomatoes (or canned)

Juice of ½ lemon (for brightness)

2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Season and Cook the Chicken

Season the Chicken:
- In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

Heat More Oil:
- In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons olive oil.
Cook the Aromatics:
- Add onions, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper, sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Stir in garlic, cooking for 30 seconds.

Cook the Rice

Toast the Rice:
- Stir in rice, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Sauté for 1-2 minutes to coat the rice with spices.
Simmer the Rice:
- Add chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes, until rice is cooked.

Finish the Dish

Return the Chicken:
- Stir the cooked chicken back into the skillet.
- Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to absorb flavors.
Add Lemon and Garnish:
- Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with parsley.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate the Dish:
- Serve hot, with extra parsley and a squeeze of lemon.
Pair with Sides:
- Enjoy with cornbread, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.

Pro Tips

For a Creamier Version: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream at the end.
Make It Extra Spicy: Add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Use Brown Rice: Increase broth to 2½ cups and simmer for 35 minutes.

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