Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice – One-Pan Flavor Bomb

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.