A Little History of Cajun Chicken and Rice
Cajun cuisine comes from Louisiana, influenced by French, African, and Native American traditions. Cajun cooking is famous for bold, smoky, and spicy flavors, often built with the “holy trinity” of onions, celery, and bell peppers. Chicken and rice became a staple because rice was affordable, filling, and paired perfectly with richly seasoned meats. Over time, creamy variations evolved to balance the spice with smoothness, creating the beloved creamy Cajun chicken and rice we know today—a dish that’s comforting, hearty, and full of character.
High Protein Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice – Easy & Delicious Homemade Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This high protein creamy Cajun chicken and rice is flavorful, comforting, and irresistibly creamy. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings, it combines tender chicken breasts seared to perfection with a spicy Cajun cream sauce served over fluffy rice. The balance of smoky heat and rich creaminess makes this dish a true comfort meal while still being packed with protein. It’s a one-pan recipe that delivers bold flavor and satisfying nutrition in every bite.
Ingredients
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4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
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2 tbsp olive oil
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2 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus extra for rice)
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1 small onion, diced
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 cups cooked white or brown rice
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
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Season chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
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In the same pan, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until fragrant.
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Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer until slightly thickened.
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Add Parmesan cheese and stir until creamy and smooth.
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Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Simmer 5 more minutes.
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Serve chicken over rice and drizzle with extra Cajun cream sauce.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Use Greek yogurt instead of cream for a lighter version.
Substitute cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken and sauce, then store separately from the rice. Combine and reheat just before serving for the best texture.
2. How spicy is Cajun seasoning?
It depends on the brand. Some blends are mild, while others are quite spicy. You can adjust by adding more cream or using less seasoning.
3. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp, turkey, or even tofu pair well with the creamy Cajun sauce. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
