Description
A comforting and flavorful one-pan dinner featuring tender Cajun-spiced chicken in a creamy sauce served over garlicky rice. Quick to prepare and customizable for spice level and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, oregano)
- 4 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (240ml), low-sodium preferred
- ¾ cup heavy cream (180ml)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
- 1 cup long grain white rice (190g)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice, 2 cups (480ml) water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until tender. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
- While rice cooks, pat chicken breasts dry. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning evenly on both sides, pressing gently. Season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook without moving for 4 minutes. Flip and cook another 3 minutes until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Remove chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
- Lower heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 30-60 seconds, being careful not to burn.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and let thicken slightly for 3-4 minutes. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Slice chicken into strips and nestle back into the creamy sauce. Spoon butter into cooked rice and fluff with a fork. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken.
- Serve garlic rice topped with creamy Cajun chicken and sauce.
Notes
Rest chicken after cooking to keep it juicy. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste. Fresh Parmesan melts better than pre-grated. Fluff rice with a fork to avoid mushiness. Butter in garlic rice adds richness but can be substituted with olive oil for dairy-free. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of broth. Brown rice can be used but requires longer cooking time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1/4 o
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 550
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 38
Keywords: Cajun chicken, creamy chicken, garlic rice, one-pan dinner, healthy dinner, quick recipe, weeknight meal