Description
How to make sticky honey Cajun chicken rice skillet with tender chicken, aromatic spices and sweet glaze that creates the perfect weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Rice Base
- 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Cajun Seasoning Blend
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp thyme
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Honey Glaze
- ⅓ cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Mix all Cajun spices in a bowl, then coat chicken pieces thoroughly. Let them sit for 5 minutes to absorb flavors while you prep other ingredients.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook seasoned chicken 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Cook Rice: Add rice to same skillet, stirring for 1 minute to toast lightly. Pour in chicken broth, bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered.
- Make Glaze: While rice cooks, whisk honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and minced garlic in small bowl until smooth. This creates your sticky coating base.
- Combine Everything: When rice is tender and liquid absorbed, return chicken to skillet. Pour glaze over everything and stir gently to coat evenly without mashing rice.
- Final Simmer: Cook 2-3 minutes more, stirring occasionally until glaze thickens and coats chicken beautifully. The mixture should look glossy and sticky when ready to serve.
Notes
- Don’t rush the searing process; golden chicken creates the flavor foundation.
- Rice should absorb all liquid before adding glaze to prevent mushiness.
- Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 4 days in refrigerator.
- Double the glaze recipe if you want extra sauce for serving.
- Cast iron skillet gives best heat retention and gorgeous presentation.
- Let chicken rest 5 minutes after seasoning for better flavor absorption.
Allergy Information: Soy
Nutrition
- Calories: 485 calories
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 38g