Pin This Cajun chicken and rice skillet delivers everything I crave in a quick weeknight meal—tender spiced chicken, colorful peppers, fluffy rice, and bold flavor in every bite. The fact that it all comes together in one pan means less cleanup and more time to enjoy around the table.
The first time I made this dish, we had friends over unexpectedly and I was able to pull it together from what I had in my fridge and pantry. The mix of spicy Cajun flavors and the vibrant veggies made it an instant hit.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: offer juiciness and stand up well to bold Cajun seasoning choose pieces with even thickness for best cooking
- Cajun seasoning: supplies all the signature spice opt for a blend without extra sodium or sugar for maximum control
- Olive oil: helps brown the chicken and vegetables select extra virgin for freshness and mild flavor
- Red and green bell peppers: bring color and a slight sweetness pick firm peppers with glossy skins
- Onion: offers background sweetness and depth look for yellow or white with no soft spots
- Fresh garlic: gives an aromatic kick crush cloves before mincing for the best flavor
- Long grain white rice: keeps things fluffy wash well to remove excess starch before cooking
- Low sodium chicken broth: adds savoriness while keeping salt in check homemade is even better
- Diced tomatoes: for juicy acidity drain well so the rice does not get soupy use fire-roasted for extra flavor
- Smoked paprika: deepens the flavor use a sweet or hot variety according to your taste
- Dried thyme: brings herbal complexity rub between fingers to release oils before adding
- Salt and black pepper: give balance to the spice adjust according to the broth and Cajun seasoning saltiness
- Fresh parsley: lifts the final dish with color and freshness choose flat leaf for a stronger flavor
- Lemon wedges: add a pop of brightness right before serving make sure lemons are heavy for their size
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken thighs into bite sized pieces and toss thoroughly with Cajun seasoning in a medium bowl until every surface is well coated This allows the spice to adhere and flavor the meat through
- Sear and Brown:
- Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium high until it shimmers Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer Allow it to sear undisturbed for about two minutes to develop a crust then stir occasionally for another minute or two The chicken does not need to be cooked through yet Transfer to a plate This step deepens the flavor base
- Build the Flavor Base:
- In the same skillet add diced onion and both bell peppers Cook over medium for three to four minutes stirring frequently until the vegetables look softened and the onions become translucent Add minced garlic and stir constantly for another minute until fragrant This creates a savory aromatic foundation
- Toast the Rice and Spices:
- Add rinsed rice directly to the skillet with vegetables Sprinkle smoked paprika dried thyme salt and black pepper over everything Stir well to coat each grain of rice and cook for one minute This quick toasting step unlocks the rice’s nutty aroma and wakes up the spices
- Simmer Everything Together:
- Pour in the drained diced tomatoes and chicken broth Increase the heat until the mixture begins to simmer Stir in the partially cooked chicken pieces and any juices from the plate Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients
- Steam to Fluffy Perfection:
- Cover the skillet with a lid Reduce heat to low and let the mixture cook gently for eighteen to twenty minutes Check once or twice to ensure it simmers without burning Once the rice is tender and almost all liquid is absorbed remove the pan from heat
- Rest and Garnish:
- Let the skillet sit covered for five minutes to finish steaming and make the rice fluffy Uncover fluff the rice gently with a fork to mix in any sauce from the bottom Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley Squeeze over lemon juice for a punch of acidity and extra color Serve immediately
Pin Chicken thighs are my favorite for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender even after simmering. My family loves gathering at the table when this skillet arrives hot and fragrant straight from the stove. Some of our funniest dinnertime stories have been shared over big servings of this comforting dish.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The flavors deepen after a night in the fridge making it even more delicious
For easy lunches portion into single serving containers and refrigerate or freeze
To reheat sprinkle a tablespoon of water over the rice before microwaving to prevent drying
Ingredient Substitutions
If you only have chicken breast it works fine just reduce cook time slightly to prevent drying
Swap smoked paprika for regular sweet paprika and add a pinch of chipotle powder for that smoky depth
Brown rice can be used in place of white rice Increase the chicken broth by at least half a cup and add fifteen additional minutes simmer time to ensure tender grains
Serving Suggestions
A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances out the warmth of the skillet
A cold glass of sweet iced tea or a slice of rustic bread on the side is always a win in my house
Add a fried egg or extra lemon wedges for a heartier or brighter finish
Cultural Spotlight
Cajun cuisine hails from Louisiana born out of French Acadian traditions mixed with local ingredients Bold spice blends and hearty skillet meals like this one keep those flavors alive in modern kitchens This dish pays tribute to the Louisiana spirit where food brings everyone together
Seasonal Adaptations
Add sweet corn or okra in summer for more Southern flair
Try diced butternut squash or extra thyme in fall and winter
In spring stir in a few generous handfuls of spinach during the last simmering minutes
Helpful Notes
Adjust the Cajun spice to taste if you like more heat add more at the end
If you want a more pronounced smoky note try a few drops of liquid smoke before simmering
This recipe easily doubles just use the largest skillet you own and watch liquid levels
Success Stories
My neighbor tried this recipe with leftover turkey after Thanksgiving and reported rave reviews It has become a go to in her meal rotation
I once froze a batch after a busy week and the flavors only got better when reheated
Freezer Meal Conversion
Follow the recipe up to the simmer step then transfer to a freezer safe container with cooled chicken and vegetable mixture When ready to eat thaw overnight dump in a skillet add a splash of broth cover and simmer gently until warmed through and rice is cooked
Pin This Cajun chicken and rice skillet is a flavor-packed, one-pan wonder perfect for weeknights. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for a vibrant finish.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works well. Adjust cooking time as breast pieces may cook slightly faster.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to increase the heat as desired.
- → What vegetables can I add for variation?
Chopped celery is classic, but zucchini or corn can also be stirred in for added texture and flavor.
- → Can this meal be made in advance?
Yes, it reheats well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- → Is the dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Double-check packaged broth and Cajun seasoning labels.
- → What can I serve alongside?
Brighten your meal with a crisp salad or warm crusty bread for a comforting pairing.