This One-Pan Creamy Cajun Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the ultimate weeknight comfort food—rich, spicy, and irresistibly creamy. Juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken is pan-seared to perfection and paired with garlicky, cheesy rice cooked in a luscious blend of chicken broth and heavy cream. Everything comes together in a single skillet for easy cleanup and maximum flavor. A family favorite that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Quick and easy – Ready in just over 30 minutes.
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One skillet, zero hassle – Fewer dishes, more flavor.
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Perfect weeknight dinner – Balanced, hearty, and satisfying.
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Customizable heat level – Adjust Cajun spice to your preference.
Ingredients Breakdown
Protein:
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1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced – Lean, juicy protein that soaks up Cajun flavor beautifully.
Grain:
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1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked) – A hearty, tender base that absorbs all the rich, creamy flavors.
Fats & Oils:
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2 tbsp olive oil – For browning the chicken and building flavor.
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1 tbsp butter – Adds richness to the garlic and rice.
Aromatics & Herbs:
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2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with deep, savory aroma.
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1/4 cup chopped green onions or parsley – Fresh garnish for flavor and color contrast.
Liquids:
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2 cups chicken broth – Enhances depth and adds moisture for cooking the rice.
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1 cup heavy cream – Creates a creamy texture in the rice.
Seasonings & Spices:
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1 tbsp Cajun seasoning – Bold, spicy flavor that defines the dish.
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1 tsp garlic powder – Reinforces the garlic notes.
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika – Adds smokiness and depth.
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Salt and black pepper to taste – For balance and seasoning control.
Cheese:
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Creamy, salty richness that ties everything together.
Tips and Tricks:
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Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels.
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Stir occasionally while the rice cooks to prevent sticking.
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Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
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Don’t overcook the chicken—remove it from the pan once it’s cooked to keep it juicy.
Variations and Customizations:
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Swap chicken for shrimp or sausage for a Cajun seafood twist.
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Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients.
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Use brown rice (increase cooking time by 10–15 minutes and adjust liquid).
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Make it cheesy: Stir in extra Parmesan or a handful of mozzarella.
Pairing Suggestions:
This creamy and spicy chicken skillet pairs perfectly with:
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Garlic bread or warm rolls
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A crisp side salad with vinaigrette
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Grilled or roasted vegetables
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Iced sweet tea or a glass of Chardonnay
Storage Instructions:
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Microwave or warm in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth.
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Freezing not recommended as the cream sauce may separate.
Popular Questions:
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, simply skip the searing step and stir in chopped pre-cooked chicken after the rice is done cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes—just double-check your Cajun seasoning and chicken broth labels to ensure they’re gluten-free.
Can I use instant rice?
You can, but reduce the cooking time and adjust the liquid accordingly. The texture may differ slightly.
What’s the best type of Parmesan to use?
Freshly grated Parmesan (not the shelf-stable kind) melts better and adds more flavor.