Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice Bowls
why make this recipe
This dish cooks in one skillet and comes together fast. It gives creamy, spicy flavor and fills bowls with warm comfort. It is great for weeknight dinners and makes good leftovers.
introduction
Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice Bowls are simple and tasty. You cook chicken, veggies, rice, and cream in one pan. If you like easy Cajun meals, try a similar quick recipe like Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes for another weeknight idea.
how to make Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice Bowls
- Cook and brown the chicken first, then set it aside.
- Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper in the same skillet so they pick up the chicken flavor.
- Stir in Cajun seasoning and let it toast a minute to wake the spices.
- Add rice, chicken broth, and heavy cream, then simmer until the rice is tender and the mix thickens.
- Put the chicken back in and stir in green onions before serving.
For another one-dish chicken and rice idea, you can look at this baked version that gives a different texture and flavor: best chicken and rice casserole.
Ingredients :
- 1 lb Chicken breast, Boneless skinless
- 1 medium Bell pepper
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 2 tbsp Green onions
- 1 medium Onion
- 2 cups Low-sodium Chicken broth
- 1 cup White rice or jasmine rice, Long-grain
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup Heavy cream
Directions :
- In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the rice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in green onions.
- Serve hot in bowls.
how to serve Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice Bowls
Spoon the mixture into bowls while it is hot. Add extra green onions on top. You can also add a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of parsley for brightness. Serve with a simple side salad or steamed veggies.
how to store Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice Bowls
Cool the leftovers to room temperature within two hours. Put them in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, use a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
tips to make Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice Bowls
- Cut chicken into even pieces so they cook at the same speed.
- Use low-sodium broth so you can control the salt.
- If the sauce gets too thick while reheating, add a splash of broth or water.
- For a cheesy version, try ideas from casserole dishes like broccoli cheddar chicken rice casserole and add a little cheese at the end.
- Taste and adjust Cajun seasoning to match your heat preference.
variation (if any)
- Swap chicken for cooked shrimp in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Add broccoli, peas, or spinach for more veggies.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Make it spicy with extra Cajun seasoning or chili flakes.
FAQs
Q: Can I use brown rice?
A: You can, but brown rice needs more liquid and a longer cooking time. Cook until tender.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
A: Yes. Thighs stay moist and work well. Adjust cook time until done.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: Yes. Cool and freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute, but the flavor will change slightly.
Q: How can I reduce the heat?
A: Use less Cajun seasoning or choose a mild blend. Add more cream to tame spice.
Conclusion
For another one-pot take on creamy Cajun chicken and rice, see One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice – The Kitchn which shows a similar easy method. If you want a different creamy style, check this family-friendly version at Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice – Will Cook For Smiles.
Print
Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice Bowls
A quick and creamy Cajun chicken and rice dish cooked all in one skillet, perfect for weeknight dinners and leftovers.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb Boneless skinless Chicken breast
- 1 medium Bell pepper
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 2 tbsp Green onions
- 1 medium Onion
- 2 cups Low-sodium Chicken broth
- 1 cup Long-grain White rice or jasmine rice
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup Heavy cream
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the rice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in green onions.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally adding extra green onions, a squeeze of lemon, or parsley for brightness.
Notes
For a cheesy version, add a little cheese at the end. Swap chicken for shrimp or add vegetables like broccoli for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Cajun chicken, rice bowls, one skillet meals, weeknight dinners
