Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice Bowls are simple and tasty. You get spicy chicken, a rich cream sauce, and white rice. This dish is quick for weeknights and still feels special.
Why make this recipe
This meal is fast, filling, and full of flavor. It uses easy ingredients you likely have on hand. If you like creamy chicken and rice, try this creamy smothered chicken and rice for another idea.
How to prepare Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice Bowls
Start by getting all ingredients ready. Season the chicken and cook it first. Then make the sauce in the same pan so it picks up flavor. Cook the rice while you finish the sauce. Slice the chicken and mix it into the sauce, then serve over rice.
Ingredients
- chicken breasts
- Cajun seasoning
- Parmesan cheese
- heavy cream
- rice
- salt
- pepper
- olive oil
- garlic
- onion
- bell pepper
Steps
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped garlic, onion, and bell pepper until tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth.
- Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, mixing it with the sauce.
- Meanwhile, cook the rice according to package instructions.
- Serve the creamy Cajun chicken over the rice and enjoy!
How to serve Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice Bowls
Serve hot over a bowl of rice. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or chopped parsley. A squeeze of lemon or a side salad works well. Serve with steamed veg or crusty bread if you like.
How to store Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice Bowls
Let cool to room temp. Put in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or microwave until hot. Add a splash of cream or water if sauce is thick.
Tips to make Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice Bowls perfectly
- Pat chicken dry so seasoning sticks.
- Don’t crowd the pan when cooking chicken. Cook in batches if needed.
- Use fresh garlic and onion for best flavor.
- Stir cream and Parmesan slowly so the sauce stays smooth.
- Taste and adjust salt and Cajun spice at the end.
Variations (if possible)
- Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter bowl.
- Swap chicken for shrimp; cook shrimp just until pink.
- Add mushrooms or spinach into the sauce for more veg.
- Make it spicier with extra Cajun or hot sauce.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes. Thaw fully before seasoning and cook time may change.
Q: Can I skip the Parmesan?
A: You can, but the sauce will be less rich. Try a bit extra cream or a different cheese.
Q: Is this dish freezer friendly?
A: The sauce may change texture after freezing. You can freeze cooked chicken only, then add fresh cream when reheating.
Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice Bowls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A flavorful and filling dish featuring spicy chicken in a creamy sauce served over rice.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup rice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped garlic, onion, and bell pepper until tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth.
- Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, mixing it with the sauce.
- Meanwhile, cook the rice according to package instructions.
- Serve the creamy Cajun chicken over the rice and enjoy!
Notes
For a lighter option, try using brown rice or cauliflower rice. Add veggies like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun