Cajun Chicken and Rice with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

A vibrant dish combining juicy chicken with aromatic vegetables and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, perfect for weeknights or gatherings.

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Cajun, Southern

Servings 4 servings

Calories 650 kcal

1 to 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts Juicy and tender.
1 tablespoon avocado oil For a light, healthy fat.
2 tablespoons butter Rich and creamy for added flavor.
1/2 whole yellow onion, diced Offering a sweet, aromatic base.
1/2 whole red bell pepper, diced Adding a splash of color and sweetness.
1/2 whole yellow bell pepper, diced For additional crunch and flavor.
1/2 whole green bell pepper, diced Providing freshness.
6-7 cloves garlic, minced For that mouthwatering aroma.
2 tablespoons tomato paste Enriching the dish with deeper flavors.
1 cup basmati rice Fluffy and fragrant.
14.5 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes To add a rustic touch.
1 cube chicken bouillon For an extra umami punch.
2 cups water or chicken broth To cook the rice perfectly.
2 tablespoons salted butter (for the sauce) Creaminess that complements the dish.
1/2 cup heavy cream For a velvety sauce.
to taste Cajun seasoning Infusing the dish with delightful spice.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For a nutty, cheesy finish.
to taste garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika For seasoning bliss.
to taste Kinder's Buttery Poultry Blend and Slap Ya Mama Cajun seasoning To enhance those bold flavors.

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs or breasts with avocado oil and a mix of spices: garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, Kinder's Buttery Poultry Blend, and Slap Ya Mama Cajun seasoning.

Heat avocado oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Incorporate the tomato paste into the skillet, stirring well. Cook for 2-3 minutes.

Add the basmati rice, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, chicken bouillon, and water or chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 12-15 minutes until the rice is tender.

While the rice cooks, melt butter in a separate saucepan. Sauté minced garlic for about a minute, then stir in heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Slowly mix in grated Parmesan cheese.

Once the rice is done, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour the garlic Parmesan sauce over everything. Gently fold to combine.

Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or cilantro. Reduce Cajun seasoning for a milder dish. This recipe stores well and can be made in advance.

Keyword Cajun Chicken, Comfort Food, Garlic Parmesan Sauce, One-Pan Meal, Quick Dinner