Description
The Cheesy Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet is a delightful one-pan dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with creamy, cheesy rice infused with bold Cajun spices. Each bite offers a satisfying blend of textures, from the crispy edges of the chicken to the velvety smoothness of the cheese sauce, creating a comforting and flavorful experience.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Rice: 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Liquids: 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream
- Spices: 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the rice, ensuring it is well-coated with the oil and vegetables, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen the rice and heat in a skillet over medium heat.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or corn for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 800 milligrams
- Fat: 30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 15 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 35 grams
- Cholesterol: 120 milligrams
Keywords: Cheesy Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet, one-pan meal, Cajun chicken, creamy rice, easy dinner, comfort food, skillet recipe, chicken and rice, Cajun cuisine, cheesy dinner, quick meal, family-friendly recipe