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High Protein Crema Cajun Chicken & Rice Recipe


  • Author: Marina
  • Total Time: 30 minutes (plus overnight marination)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This High Protein Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice recipe offers a flavorful, comforting meal combining tender Cajun-seasoned chicken with creamy, cheesy rice. Marinated chicken breasts are pan-seared to golden perfection and served over spiced rice coated in a rich, velvety sauce made from cream cheese, parmesan, and milk. Ideal for a high-protein dinner that’s packed with bold Cajun flavors and creamy goodness.


Ingredients

Scale

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tsp Oregano
  • 1 tsp Thyme
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 1 tsp Chilli Powder
  • 1.5 tsp Cajun Seasoning Mix (for marinade)
  • 1 tsp Cajun Seasoning Mix (divided)

Protein & Fats

  • 800 g Chicken Breast (cut into halves)
  • 2 tsp Olive Oil
  • 25 g Grass Fed Butter (for cooking chicken)
  • 15 g Grass Fed Butter (for sauce)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 Medium Red Onion (chopped)
  • 45 Garlic Cloves (chopped)
  • Fresh Parsley (for garnish)

Dairy & Creamy Components

  • 250 ml Milk
  • 150 g Light Cream Cheese
  • 40 g Parmesan Cheese

Staples

  • Day-old cooked rice (quantity not specified, estimate ~300-350 g cooked rice)

Instructions

  1. Marinate Chicken: Combine the chicken breast pieces with 1.5 tsp Cajun seasoning mix and 2 tsp olive oil. Ensure each piece is well coated and marinate overnight, preferably in an airtight glass container for maximum flavor penetration.
  2. Cook Chicken: Heat 25 g grass-fed butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken pieces until a crispy, golden crust forms. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add chopped red onion and garlic cloves. Sauté until fragrant and softened.
  4. Add Seasoning and Rice: Sprinkle in the remaining Cajun seasoning mix. Then add day-old cooked rice to the pan and stir thoroughly to coat the rice with the spices and aromatics.
  5. Prepare Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat and add 15 g grass-fed butter to the pan. Once melted, add the remaining Cajun seasoning mix followed by slowly whisking in the milk. Warm through gently.
  6. Add Cheese: Stir in the light cream cheese and parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and evenly coats the rice.
  7. Serve: Plate the creamy Cajun rice, top with the sliced crispy chicken, then drizzle any remaining sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes

  • Marinating chicken overnight enhances the depth of flavor and tenderness.
  • Using day-old rice helps achieve better texture without clumping in the creamy sauce.
  • Cast iron skillets are preferred for cooking chicken to get a perfect golden crust.
  • Whisk sauces continuously to maintain smooth texture and avoid lumps.
  • This dish can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus overnight marination)
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun, American

Keywords: Cajun chicken, creamy rice, high protein chicken recipe, Cajun seasoning, pan-seared chicken, creamy Cajun sauce, easy chicken dinner