Description
How to make sweet and spicy Cajun chicken rice skillet with tender chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and bold flavors in one pan for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken & Base
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Rice & Liquid
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels
Sweet & Spicy Seasonings
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss chicken pieces with half the seasoning mix until evenly coated.
- Brown Chicken: Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook 5-6 minutes until golden brown on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In same skillet, add diced onion and bell pepper. Cook 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds more until aromatic.
- Add Rice: Stir in uncooked rice and remaining seasoning mix. Cook 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until rice is lightly toasted and coated with seasonings and oil.
- Combine Everything: Add chicken broth, drained tomatoes, and corn kernels. Return browned chicken to skillet and stir gently to combine. Bring mixture to a rolling boil.
- Simmer Covered: Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Don’t lift the lid during cooking time.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff rice gently with fork, taste for seasoning, and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Don’t lift the lid while rice cooks or steam escapes and rice won’t cook evenly.
- Store leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Substitute jasmine or basmati rice for different flavor profiles.
- Add extra cayenne pepper gradually to increase heat level to your preference.
- Serve with cooling sides like avocado or sour cream to balance the spice.
- Double the seasoning mix recipe and store extra for future quick meals.
Allergy Information: None
Nutrition
- Calories: 420 calories
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Protein: 28g