Why Make This Recipe
One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice is a delicious, easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights. It combines flavorful Cajun spices with tender chicken, rice, and vegetables, all cooked in one pot. This means less cleanup and a fantastic meal that your family will love. The recipe is simple, quick, and packed with flavors, making it a go-to option for anyone looking to serve a comforting dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into pieces
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
Directions:
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, rice, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, and salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Stir in frozen peas, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and serve warm.
How to Serve One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice
Serve the One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice in bowls. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for an extra touch. This dish goes well with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
How to Store One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice
If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice
- Make sure to season the chicken well for the best flavor.
- You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
- Add other vegetables like corn or zucchini to enhance the dish.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a little cream or cheese before serving.
Variation
Try swapping the chicken for shrimp or sausage for a different flavor. You can also use brown rice for a healthier option, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook, so you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Is it okay to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make it a day in advance, just reheat it in a pot over low heat before serving.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into pieces
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional) Optional for added color and flavor
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons oil For cooking
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, rice, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, and salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Stir in frozen peas, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and serve warm.
