Make this simple, one-pan Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice for a bold, flavorful weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup. This recipe delivers authentic Louisiana spice balanced with a rich, comforting sauce.
Author:sarahmiller
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:30 min
Total Time:45 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Dinner
Method:Skillet Cooking
Cuisine:Cajun
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
Season the cut chicken pieces generously with the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Stir in the uncooked rice, coating it in the pan drippings. Cook for 1 minute.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Stir in the cream of chicken soup and heavy cream until well combined. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Check occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the frozen peas and Parmesan cheese until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving this hearty chicken dish immediately.
Notes
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in your Cajun seasoning blend.
If you prefer pasta, substitute the rice with 8 ounces of rotini or penne pasta, adding it when you add the broth and increasing the broth by 1 cup. Adjust cooking time as needed for the pasta.
This recipe works well for meal prep; store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.