What is Cajun Ground Chicken and rice? What is a perfect weeknight skillet dinner? What is comfort food bliss? I swear, my family practically inhales this every time I make it. Is Cajun seasoning overpowering? Is it easier to make gumbo than a full-blown gummy bear? What is a good recipe for Cajun Ground Chicken and Spinach? What are some good recipes for rice?
What is Cajun ground chicken and rice?
What are some of the best one-pan wonders in Louisiana? What is essentially seasoned Ground Chicken simmered with rice, vegetables like bell peppers and onions? What are some Cajun spices? What is the beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the incredible depth of flavor you get from just eating it. a handful of ingredients. What is comfort food? Why do I have to spend hours in the kitchen? My grandma used to make a version of this with sausage, but I love the lighter twist with ground beef.
Why you will love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? First off, the flavor is absolutely intoxicating. The Cajun spices give it a warm, smoky, slightly spicy kick that’s just irresistible. It’s savory, comforting, and totally addictive. What I love most about this is how incredibly easy it is to make. Seriously, it’s a dump-and-stir kind of recipe, which is a lifesaver on busy nights. Plus, it’s so budget-friendly! Ground chicken is usually pretty affordable, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. It is also incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a main course, stuff it into bell peppers, or even use it as a filling for burritos. It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for picky eaters. It’s similar to my Spanish Rice Recipe in terms of ease and comfort, but with a totally different flavor profile. It is a home run for any night of the week!
How do I make Cajun Ground Chicken and Rice?
Quick Overview
If you’re going to brown some ground chicken, sauté some veggies, add in rice, broth, and serve. Cajun spices, and let it all simmer until the rice is cooked and the flavors have melded together. What’s the best thing about cooking in One Pan? Don’t be intimidated by the list of ingredients – it’s mostly spices, and trust me, they’re worth it. Is it as simple as throwing a pot and letting the magic happen?
Ingredients
For Cajun Ground Chicken and Rice: For the Taco Belladonna:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil:What cooking oil do you use?
– 1 pound ground chicken:I prefer using lean ground chicken (not too greasy) so it’s not too fat.
– 1 medium onion, chopped:What is the best way to use a yellow onion?
– 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Adds a lovely sweetness and crunch.
– 2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced is always best!
– 2 cups chicken broth: Use low-sodium so you can control the saltiness.
– 1 cup long-grain white rice:If you use brown rice, it will take longer to cook.
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning:I like Tony Chachere’s!
– 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a nice smoky flavor and color.
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a lovely earthy note.
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For an extra kick!
– Salt and pepper to taste: Always important to season properly.
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of freshness.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
In a large skillet or Dutch Oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. What is the best way to drain off grease from your hands? I always do this step first to get the chicken nice and flavorful.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add onion and bell pepper to a skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. What is the best way to burn garlic?
Step 3: Add the Rice and Seasonings
Stir in the rice, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure everything is well combined. Where does magic start?
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes. How long does it take for rice to be cooked? How can I resist the urge to peek? I learned this the hard way – peeking lets out steam and can make the rice unevenly cooked.
Step 5: Fluff and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy! My kids always ask for seconds, so I usually make a double batch.
What should I serve it with?
What are some good side dishes to serve with Cajun ground chicken and rice? What are some of my favorite pairings?
What is a quick and easy weeknight dinner?A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. The coolness of the salad balances the spice of rice perfectly.
For a Potluck:What is a classic Southern pairing? I like to add a little jalapeo to my cornbread for an extra kick.
For a Comfort Food Feast: Creamy coleslaw. The sweetness and creaminess of the coleslaw complement the savory, spicy rice beautifully.
For a Lighter Meal: Steamed green beans or broccoli. A healthy and delicious way to add some extra veggies to your meal. My family loves all things green beans!
My personal favorite is to serve it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. It adds a nice tanginess that cuts through the richness of the dish. And don’t forget the hot sauce, if you like things extra spicy!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cajun Ground Chicken and Rice
Alright, let’s talk about some tips and tricks to make sure your Cajun Ground Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly every time.
Spice Level: Cajun seasoning can vary in heat, so start with less and add more to taste. I always taste as I go and adjust accordingly.
Rice Type: While I prefer long-grain white rice for this recipe, you can use brown rice. Just keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook (about 45-50 minutes) and may require more liquid.
Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth is key so that you can control the saltiness of the dish. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as celery, diced tomatoes, or even corn. Get creative and use what you have on hand!
Ground Chicken Substitutions: If you don’t have ground chicken, you can use ground turkey or even ground sausage. Just adjust the seasonings accordingly.
One-Pot Wonder: To really minimize cleanup, use a large skillet or Dutch oven that’s oven-safe. That way, you can transfer the whole thing to the oven if you want to keep it warm for a while.
I’ve found that the key is to not overcook the rice. Mushy rice is a no-no! Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with different Cajun seasoning blends. Some are spicier than others, so find one that you love. I’ve tested it with jasmine rice as well, and it does work but needs to be watched carefully as it can get sticky.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Lucky enough to have leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Cajun Ground Chicken and Rice:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s cooled down completely before refrigerating.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the rice for up to 2-3 months. Divide it into individual portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or freezer bags. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave the rice until heated through, or heat it in a skillet over medium heat with a little bit of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out. I usually add a splash of hot sauce when I reheat it to give it an extra kick.
I always make sure to use airtight containers to prevent the rice from drying out in the refrigerator. And when reheating, I like to add a little bit of fresh parsley to brighten it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I hope you give this Cajun Ground Chicken and Rice recipe a try! It’s a family favorite for a reason – it’s easy, delicious, and packed with flavor. It’s such a satisfying and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta or my One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Veggies. They’re both equally delicious and easy to make! Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to rate the recipe. Happy cooking!
Cajun Ground Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground chicken lean
- 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth low sodium
- 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning to taste
- 1 medium bell pepper chopped
- 0.5 cup frozen peas thawed
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until onion is translucent.
- Add ground chicken to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Stir in bell pepper, Cajun seasoning, and rice. Cook for another minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add peas and continue to cook for another 5 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Fluff rice with a fork and serve hot.
