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–+ servings

Creamy Cajun Chicken Rice

This one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, aromatic rice, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter or a combination for richness
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • to taste sea salt
  • to taste black pepper
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • for garnish green onions, sliced
  • for garnish fresh parsley, optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet,
  • Dutch Oven

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then brown them in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Set aside.
  2. Add diced onions to the pan and cook until translucent. Add garlic and red bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes.
  3. Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme, cooking for 1 minute to release the spices' aromas.
  4. Add the rice, stirring to coat with the spice mixture. Toast the rice for 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and return the chicken to the pan. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for 18-20 minutes, until the rice absorbs the liquid and the chicken is cooked through.
  6. Stir in the cream, tomatoes, and corn. Warm through for 2 minutes, then adjust seasonings to taste.
  7. Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 350IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half. Add shrimp or sausage for extra flavor!
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