Make this bold, spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet for a simple, flavorful one-pan dinner. You get tender chicken and fluffy rice packed with deep Cajun seasoning.
Author:Hannah Rodger
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:35 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Skillet
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
3 cups chicken broth
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1/2 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in garlic, thyme, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add uncooked rice to the skillet and stir for 1 minute to coat with seasonings.
Pour in chicken broth and add diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, return the chicken to the skillet, and stir once.
Cover the skillet tightly and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Do not lift the lid during simmering.
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in frozen peas. Keep covered for 5 minutes.
Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, use smoked paprika.
If you prefer less heat, start with 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
Make sure you use long-grain white rice for the best texture in this skillet meal.