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Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice – One-Pan Flavor Bomb

Lori Ballen by Lori Ballen
February 11, 2025
in Food Ideas
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A bowl of spicy Cajun chicken and rice is garnished with parsley. A fork holds a piece of juicy chicken. Text overlay reads: SPICY CAJUN CHICKEN AND RICE - ONE-PAN FLAVOR BOMB! Lemon wedges are on the side.
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This website contains affiliate links. Some products are gifted by the brand to test. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The content on this website was created with the help of AI.

This spicy Cajun chicken and rice is packed with bold flavors, tender chicken, and a smoky, spiced rice base that cooks in the same pan. It’s a quick, easy, and one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just the right amount of heat and a deep, savory taste, this dish will keep everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-pan meal – Minimal cleanup
  • Bold & flavorful – Cajun seasoning gives it a smoky, spicy kick
  • Hearty & satisfying – A perfect balance of protein and carbs
  • Customizable – Adjust spice level or add veggies to suit your taste

What You’ll Need

Ingredients (Serves 4):

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 small bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Juice of ½ a lemon

How to Make Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir to coat with the seasonings. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with juice). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender.

Step 4: Combine & Finish

Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir everything together. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot, garnished with extra parsley.


Tips for the Best Cajun Chicken and Rice

  • Use long-grain rice – It absorbs the flavors without getting mushy.
  • Brown the chicken well – It adds depth to the overall flavor.
  • Adjust the spice level – Add extra red pepper flakes for more heat or reduce Cajun seasoning for a milder taste.

Variations & Add-Ons

  • Swap the Protein: Use shrimp, sausage, or a mix of both.
  • Add More Veggies: Stir in chopped tomatoes, okra, or corn.
  • Make it Cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan before serving.

Storage & Meal Prep

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to bring back moisture.
  • Freeze: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
A bowl of spicy Cajun chicken with rice, topped with tomatoes, parsley, and a lemon wedge. A fork slices into the juicy chicken. Text on the image reads, Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice: One-Pan Flavor Bomb! Perfect for a quick and savory meal.

This website contains affiliate links. Some products are gifted by the brand to test. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The content on this website was created with the help of AI.

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Lori Ballen

A cheerful woman enjoys a sunny day outdoors in her suburban neighborhood, radiating warmth and relaxation.

Hi! I’m Lori Ballen. I’m a midlife creator who finds joy in home projects, cozy spaces, effortless style, and simple-but-delicious recipes. I started this lifestyle blog as my personal outlet—a place to create, explore, and share what I’m loving right now.

I live in Las Vegas and travel often, especially on solo adventures and cruises that feed my love for freedom and discovery. When I’m not writing or filming, I’m probably hanging out at home with my two adopted cats—one spunky and playful, the other a total lap lover. They’re constant companions in my quiet, creative life.

This blog is a reflection of that life—equal parts fun, functional, and full of soul. Whether you’re looking for a new DIY idea, a comfy outfit, or a quick dinner recipe, I hope you find inspiration here to create a home and lifestyle you love.

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