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Creamy Cajun Chicken Rice Easy One-Pot Dinner Recipe

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This creamy Cajun chicken rice is a comforting one-pot dinner packed with smoky Cajun spices, juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a velvety sauce. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
  • 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Chop chicken into bite-size pieces. Dice onion and bell peppers. Mince garlic. Measure rice, broth, cream, and seasonings.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sprinkle with half the Cajun seasoning. Sear for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned but not cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate.
  3. In the same pan, add diced onion and bell peppers. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and edges start to caramelize. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  4. Add remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Stir for 30 seconds. Add rice and stir to coat, toasting for 1 minute.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and half-and-half. Scrape up any browned bits. Return chicken to the pan. Stir and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes.
  6. Uncover and stir in softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. If using frozen peas, add them now. Simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes until creamy and thickened.
  7. Remove from heat and let stand 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Use long-grain white rice for best texture. Toasting the rice and spices adds depth of flavor. Adjust Cajun seasoning for desired spice level. For dairy-free, substitute coconut milk and dairy-free cream cheese. Add extra broth if rice is undercooked or sauce is too thick. Dish reheats and freezes well.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken rice, creamy chicken rice, one-pot dinner, easy chicken recipe, comfort food, weeknight meal, family dinner, spicy chicken rice, skillet chicken rice, rice casserole

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-rice-easy-one-pot-dinner-recipe/