Name: One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 1/3 cup red bell pepper, diced; 1/3 cup green bell pepper, diced; 1 small Roma tomato, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste); 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp ground black pepper; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; Fresh parsley, for garnish

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If you are craving a dinner that’s bursting with bold flavors yet requires minimal fuss, the One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken thighs and perfectly cooked rice infused with vibrant Cajun spices and fresh vegetables, all simmered together in one pot to create a cozy, satisfying meal. It’s a fantastic weeknight dinner that promises rich color, enticing aromas, and a delightful balance of smoky, savory, and slightly spicy notes—all while keeping cleanup to a minimum.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several round white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface. There are two raw chicken thighs in a glass bowl at the top left, next to a clear measuring cup filled with orange-yellow liquid at the top right. Below them are white bowls containing finely chopped white onions, green bell peppers, red bell peppers, minced garlic, tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, spices with red, brown, green, and white powders, and uncooked rice. The ingredients are neatly organized in rows, showing a variety of fresh and colorful components for cooking. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible. From aromatic spices to fresh vegetables and hearty chicken thighs, each component is simple yet essential to mastering this comforting one-pot wonder.

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on: These provide juicy, flavorful meat with crispy skin after searing.
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning: The key spice blend that delivers the signature Cajun kick.
1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smoky depth to both chicken and rice.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
1/2 tsp ground black pepper: Gives a gentle peppery heat.
2 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken and sautéing the veggies.
1 1/2 cup long-grain white rice: The base that soaks up all those amazing spices and broth.
1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds a sweet, savory foundation.
1/3 cup red bell pepper, diced: Brightens the dish with color and a touch of sweetness.
1/3 cup green bell pepper, diced: Offers a crisp, fresh flavor balance.
1 small roma tomato, diced: Brings acidity and juiciness to the rice.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses irresistible aromatic notes.
1 tbsp tomato paste: Deepens the flavor and enriches the color.
3 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that cooks the rice and blends everything together.
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste): Boosts the Cajun flavors in the rice.
1 tsp dried thyme: Adds herbal earthiness.
1 tbsp unsalted butter: Finishes the dish with a smooth, silky touch.
Fresh parsley for garnish: Provides a fresh, bright finish that’s as pretty as it is tasty.

How to Make One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Begin by generously seasoning your chicken thighs with the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This coating ensures every bite packs bold flavor. Next, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown. This searing step is crucial—it locks in the juices and builds a rich base flavor. Don’t worry about cooking the chicken through just yet; once seared, remove it and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatic Vegetables

Using the same pot, toss in the diced onion, red and green bell peppers, roma tomato, and minced garlic. Sauté these ingredients until they soften and become wonderfully fragrant, about 5 minutes. This mix infuses the rice with a natural sweetness and freshness that perfectly complements the Cajun spices.

Step 3: Toast the Rice with Spices

Add the rice to the pot along with the tomato paste, additional Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly to toast the rice and spices for 2 to 3 minutes. This extra step develops deeper flavor and helps the rice absorb all those wonderful spices when the broth is added.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer with Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything to combine well. Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pot, placing them gently on top of the rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer undisturbed for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the rice will cook perfectly, soaking up the flavorful broth while the chicken finishes cooking through to juicy perfection. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Once your chicken and rice are tender and fragrant, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the unsalted butter to add richness and silkiness to the rice. Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top to brighten up the dish and add a lovely pop of color.

How to Serve One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe

A white bowl holds a serving of orange-red rice mixed with small pieces of red and green peppers and herbs, forming the bottom layer. On top sits a single piece of browned, crispy chicken with a dark, textured skin and a small green herb garnish on the center. In the background, a black pan filled with similar rice and chicken is visible, all placed on a white marbled surface beside a pale green cloth and stacked white bowls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley and chopped green onions are perfect for garnishing this dish. They add a burst of freshness and a hint of crunch that balances out the rich, smoky flavors. For an extra touch, a squeeze of lemon or a few dashes of hot sauce can elevate the flavor and add some zing.

Side Dishes

Keep your sides simple to let the dish shine. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans complement the hearty Cajun chicken and rice beautifully. Cornbread or crusty French bread is also great if you want something to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe in individual cast iron skillets to keep it warm and rustic. You can also transform leftovers into stuffed bell peppers or wrap the chicken and rice in tortillas for a flavorful Cajun burrito night. The vibrant colors and layers of flavor make it great for family-style serving bowls where everyone can help themselves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen after resting, making the next-day meal just as delicious. Be sure to cool the dish to room temperature before refrigerating to keep everything fresh.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well, too. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and it will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out. Heat until warmed through and the chicken is tender again, taking care not to overcook.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can swap chicken thighs for breasts, but thighs stay juicier and more flavorful after cooking. If using breasts, watch the cooking time closely to prevent them from drying out.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level is moderate thanks to the Cajun seasoning, but you can easily adjust it up or down. Start with less Cajun seasoning and add more later if you want to increase the heat.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure your Cajun seasoning and chicken broth are certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Do I need to rinse the rice before cooking?

Rinsing the rice under cold water removes excess starch for fluffier, less sticky rice—definitely a helpful step for this one-pot dish.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the vegetables and season the chicken ahead of time. Simply store them separately and assemble just before cooking for the freshest flavors.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly satisfying about cooking an entire flavorful meal in just one pot, and this One Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice Recipe delivers on that promise with vibrant taste and charming simplicity. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a comforting dish with minimal cleanup. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy the irresistible Cajun spirit it brings straight to your dinner table.