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Easy One-Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice Dinner

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This Easy One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice Dinner is the perfect weeknight meal, combining seasoned chicken thighs with flavorful Cajun-spiced rice, all cooked in one pot. It’s quick, easy, and ideal for busy families looking for a delicious, no-fuss dinner!

Ingredients

  • Chicken thighs (bone-in with skin on for crispiness)
  • Long-grain white rice (Jasmine or Basmati recommended)
  • Yellow onion
  • Red and green bell peppers
  • Garlic cloves
  • Roma tomato
  • Tomato paste
  • Chicken broth
  • Cajun seasoning
  • Dried thyme
  • Smoked paprika
  • Unsalted butter
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat, sear chicken thighs until golden brown, and set aside.
  • Sauté Veggies: In the same pot, sauté diced onion, bell peppers, tomato, and garlic until softened.
  • Cook Rice: Add rice, Cajun seasoning, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to toast the rice and spices for 2-3 minutes.
  • Combine: Pour in chicken broth, stir, and nestle seared chicken thighs back in. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
  • Garnish & Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve.

Notes

  • Chicken Variations:

    • You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts if preferred. However, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs add extra flavor and juiciness.
    • For a quicker cooking time, use boneless chicken and reduce the simmering time.

  • Rice Options:

    • While long-grain white rice works best for this recipe, you can substitute it with brown rice or wild rice, though the cooking time will increase for brown rice (about 40 minutes).
    • You can also use parboiled rice, but make sure to adjust the liquid ratio as needed.

  • Spice Level:

    • Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your desired spice level. If you prefer less heat, use a mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the amount of paprika and cayenne.
    • Add hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes if you like extra heat.

  • Vegetable Variations:

    • Add corn or green beans for extra texture and flavor.
    • You can also swap bell peppers for other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.

  • Storage:

    • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
    • Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/easy-one-pot-cajun-chicken-and-rice-dinner/