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One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice | Easy Family Dinner

One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice is an easy one-pan dinner made with juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken, tender rice, and colorful vegetables.
Ready in about 35 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights and family meals.
Serve with fresh mango, cilantro, and lime for a bright, flavorful finish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun-Inspired

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 mangoes diced (optional)
  • Handful fresh cilantro chopped
  • Lime wedges for serving

For the Rice

  • 1 tablespoon butter if needed
  • 1 celery stalk thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 2¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

Instructions
 

  • Season the Chicken
  • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil, then coat evenly with the Cajun seasoning.
  • Brown the Chicken
  • Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter and stir in the honey until combined.
  • Place the chicken into the skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly browned. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
  • Transfer to a plate.
  • Cook the Vegetables
  • Using the same skillet, sauté the celery, diced bell pepper, and garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add another tablespoon of butter if the skillet appears dry.
  • Toast the Rice
  • Add the uncooked rice and remaining Cajun seasoning.
  • Stir continuously for about one minute to lightly toast the rice and coat every grain with the flavorful butter and spices.
  • Add the Broth
  • Pour in the chicken broth and stir well.
  • Bring everything to a gentle boil.
  • Finish Cooking
  • Reduce the heat to low.
  • Return the chicken to the skillet, placing it directly on top of the rice.
  • Cover tightly and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed the liquid and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Garnish and Serve
  • Remove from the heat and allow the One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice to rest for five minutes.
  • Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
  • Top with diced mango, chopped cilantro, and fresh lime wedges before serving.

Notes

  • Mango adds a naturally sweet contrast to the Cajun spices but can be omitted.
  • Pineapple is another delicious tropical alternative.
  • Brown rice may be substituted, but it requires additional broth and a longer cooking time.
  • Garnish with sliced green onions for added freshness.
  • Leftover rice is excellent for lunch bowls the next day.
  • Serve alongside a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or steamed broccoli.