Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice

Servings

4 servings

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Total Time

35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1½ lbs (680 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For Serving

• 3 cups cooked white rice

• Fresh chives or parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Prepare white rice according to package instructions.

2. Keep warm while preparing the chicken.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with:

   • Paprika

   • Garlic powder

   • Onion powder

   • Cayenne pepper

   • Thyme

   • Oregano

   • Salt and pepper

2. Toss until evenly coated.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add chicken pieces in a single layer.

3. Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.

4. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

2. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits.

3. Add heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika.

4. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.

5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

1. Return chicken to the skillet.

2. Toss to coat every piece in the creamy Cajun sauce.

3. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Serve

1. Spoon rice onto serving plates.

2. Top with creamy Cajun chicken.

3. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley.

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 640 kcal

• Protein: 42 g

• Fat: 28 g

• Carbohydrates: 50 g

• Fiber: 1 g

Tips for Success

• Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.

• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.

• Substitute shrimp for chicken for a seafood variation.

• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice combines tender, juicy chicken bites with a rich, velvety sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and bold Cajun spices. Served over fluffy white rice, this comforting one-pan meal delivers the perfect balance of creamy texture, smoky flavor, and gentle heat. It's quick enough for busy weeknights yet flavorful enough to feel like a restaurant-quality dinner.