Description
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rice is a flavorful, one-pan dish featuring seared chicken breast simmered with aromatic vegetables, long-grain rice, and a blend of classic Cajun spices. Cream cheese and milk create a rich, velvety texture, making this recipe comforting and satisfying for any weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1.75 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast (cut into halves)
- 1.5 tbsp Cajun Seasoning
- 2 tsp Olive Oil (for searing)
- 1.75 tbsp Grass Fed Butter
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium Red Onion (chopped)
- 1 large Green Bell Pepper (cored, seeded, and finely diced)
- 1 large Red Bell Pepper (cored, seeded, and finely diced)
- 2 stalks Celery (finely diced)
- 4–5 Garlic Cloves (minced)
Rice and Liquids
- 2 cups Uncooked Long-Grain Rice (Jasmine or Basmati recommended)
- 2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
- 4 oz Light Cream Cheese (softened at room temperature)
- 1/2 cup Milk (2% or half-and-half)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Oregano
- 1 tsp Thyme
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Chili Powder (optional)
Garnishes
- Fresh Parsley (chopped)
- Green Onions (sliced)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breast halves very dry using paper towels. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle generously with Cajun seasoning to ensure every piece is well-coated.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter. Once the butter is hot and foaming, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked on the outside. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Lower the heat to medium. Add chopped onion, green and red bell peppers, and celery to the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic and cook for one more minute. Then add paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, chili powder (if using), and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 30 seconds until the spices release their aroma.
- Toast the Rice: Add rinsed rice to the skillet with the vegetables and spices. Stir well to coat the rice with the flavored mixture, cooking for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it.
- Add Chicken Broth and Return Chicken: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, stirring to combine. Nestle the seared chicken pieces along with any accumulated juices back into the skillet with the rice mixture.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet tightly and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Rest and Shred Chicken: Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. Shred or chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces while the dish rests.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese: Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Add the softened cream cheese and stir gently until it melts completely and blends smoothly into the rice.
- Add Milk for Creaminess: Gradually pour in the milk while stirring constantly to create a creamy texture. Adjust the creaminess by adding additional milk or broth as desired.
- Season and Mix Chicken: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Fold in the shredded chicken, stirring gently until combined and warmed through.
- Garnish and Serve: Spoon the creamy Cajun chicken rice onto plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and sliced green onions for a fresh, colorful finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For best flavor, pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
- Using low-sodium chicken broth helps control the overall saltiness of the dish.
- Optional chili powder can be adjusted or omitted depending on your preferred heat level.
- Jasmine or Basmati rice works well for texture and aroma; avoid quick-cooking or minute rice.
- If the rice is too thick after cooking, add a splash more milk or broth to reach desired creaminess.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Garnishes add freshness but can be omitted or swapped with cilantro if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Keywords: Cajun chicken, creamy chicken rice, one-pan meal, Cajun seasoning, comfort food, quick dinner, easy weeknight recipe
