Description
This Spicy Cajun Chicken & Rice dish is a creamy, flavorful explosion that tantalizes the taste buds. The tender chicken is enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce, while the rice absorbs the spicy Cajun seasoning, creating a delightful texture that is both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add diced bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar over low heat. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Once the rice is cooked, pour the cheese sauce over the chicken and rice mixture. Stir to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Cajun seasoning or chopped green onions 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 sauce and warm on the stovetop over low heat.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: main-dish
- Method: sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 800 milligrams
- Fat: 30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 15 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 30 grams
- Cholesterol: 120 milligrams
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