When you’re craving a dish packed with flavor and minimal cleanup, the Cajun grilled chicken and rice skillet is your answer. This one-pan wonder is easy to make, hearty, and filled with zesty Cajun seasoning that gives every bite a punch. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or something that impresses guests, this skillet meal hits all the right notes.
The chicken is the star of the dish, marinated in a blend of Cajun spices, garlic, paprika, thyme, and a hint of cayenne pepper. Grilled to perfection, the chicken develops a beautifully smoky, charred exterior while remaining juicy inside. The Cajun seasoning gives it that perfect balance of heat and earthy flavor that makes this dish so irresistible.
The rice, cooked alongside the chicken, absorbs all the flavors in the skillet. Using long-grain white rice or even brown rice helps to keep the texture fluffy and prevents it from becoming too soggy. The rice simmers in a flavorful broth, allowing the seasonings to infuse with every grain. For extra flavor, toss in some diced bell peppers, onions, and garlic while the rice cooks. These vegetables bring a hint of sweetness and color that perfectly complements the spiced chicken.
For a bit of extra creaminess, you can stir in some heavy cream or sour cream just before serving, making the dish richer without overwhelming the bold Cajun flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color and a bit of freshness to balance the spice.
This dish is perfect for those who want a complete, comforting meal with a kick, all made in one skillet. It’s quick, easy, and versatile. Whether you like your Cajun food with extra heat or prefer a milder flavor, this Cajun grilled chicken and rice skillet is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Cajun Grilled Chicken and Rice Skillet has gained immense popularity among food enthusiasts for its flavorful combination of grilled chicken, Cajun seasoning, and rice. This one-pot meal is not only packed with vibrant spices but is also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy individuals and families alike. The dish’s versatility allows for customization, allowing cooks to add their favorite vegetables or proteins to cater to their preferences. With its bold flavors and simplicity, it has become a favorite choice for those looking to add a Cajun twist to their cooking repertoire.
Cajun Grilled Chicken and Rice Skillet offers several health benefits, making it a nutritious and well-balanced meal option. As a lean source of protein, grilled chicken helps in building and repairing muscles, supporting immune function, and aiding in weight management. Cajun seasoning, typically made with herbs and spices known for their antioxidant properties, adds a flavorful kick while also potentially providing health benefits. Additionally, incorporating rice into this recipe provides a good source of carbohydrates, essential for energy. With its combination of protein, vegetables, and whole grains, Cajun Grilled Chicken and Rice Skillet is a wholesome and satisfying dish that can contribute to a healthy and balanced diet.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts boneless, skinless
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes undrained
- 1 cup corn frozen
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- parsley chopped fresh for garnish
Instructions
- Rub the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), frozen corn, and frozen peas to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Slice the grilled chicken and return it to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the Cajun grilled chicken and rice skillet garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Nutrition
Looking good!
Yuck!! This was a disaster! My kids wouldn’t eat it. What is Cajun seasoning anyway?
Cajun seasoning is just a mix of spices! Maybe you could try Italian herbs next time? Not all dishes fit everyone’s taste.
Yikes, sorry to hear that! My kids love it! Maybe you cooked it wrong or something? 🤷♀️
I think it lacked something. Maybe a bit more seasoning? Or some hot sauce? Not bad but could be better.
So good! But I gotta say, I used brown rice instead of white and it took longer to cook. Still worth it!
I followed the recipe but the rice didn’t cook properly. Maybe my skillet isn’t big enough? Not sure.
Sounds like your skillet really needs to be bigger! Make sure the rice has enough space to cook evenly. Try using a pot next time!
I had the same problem once! I ended up just adding more broth and letting it simmer longer. Maybe that’ll help next time!
This was absolutely delicious! The spices were on point and the chicken was super juicy. Definitely making it again!
Easy peasy and tasty! Perfect for busy weeknights. I added some extra garlic because I love it!