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Easy Cajun Chicken and Rice

A comforting one-pot dish featuring juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and flavorful Cajun spices, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking
  • 1 strip bacon Adds smoky flavor
  • 1 lb chicken breasts, diced Cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning Adjust based on spice preference
  • 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes, with liquid For moisture and flavor
  • 1 cup white rice
  • 1.5 cups water

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Chop the onion and garlic. Cut the chicken into even-sized 1-inch pieces.
Cooking
  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook for about 2 minutes until brown, then remove it from the skillet.
  2. In the same skillet, add olive oil and cook the chicken pieces for about 3 minutes until browned, then remove the chicken.
  3. Sauté the chopped onions for about 3 minutes, then add the garlic for another 30 seconds.
  4. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, diced tomatoes with liquid, white rice, and water.
  5. Mix everything well and add back the chicken and chopped bacon.
  6. Bring it all to a boil, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to a simmer for 15 minutes.
  7. After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for 5-10 minutes. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork and serve.

Notes

Serve warm, topped with fresh herbs like parsley. Pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days.