Cajun Chicken Rice Bowl
Spice up your meal prep with this bold and flavorful Cajun Chicken Rice Bowl! Packed with juicy, perfectly seasoned Cajun chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies, this easy dinner idea is a total game-changer for busy weeknights. Every bite delivers smoky, zesty goodness with just the right kick of heat.
Ingredients
- For the Cajun Chicken
- 1½ lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- For the Rice
- 1½ cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth or water
- ½ tsp salt
- For the Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional Toppings
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Avocado slices
Instructions
- Cook the rice: Rinse rice under cold water. Add rice, broth, and salt to a saucepan. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes. Fluff and set aside.
- Season the chicken: Toss chicken with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne until evenly coated.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and rest, then slice.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add olive oil. Sauté peppers and onion for 4–5 minutes until tender. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
- Assemble bowls: Divide rice among bowls, top with vegetables and sliced Cajun chicken.
- Garnish and serve: Add toppings of choice and serve hot.