Cajun Chicken and Rice

Transport your taste buds to the vibrant, flavorful bayou with this scrumptious Cajun Chicken and Rice dish. Juicy chicken tenders nestled in aromatic and spicy basmati rice make for a deliciously satisfying meal that's both comforting and hearty. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
🐔 12-13 chicken tenders
🌶️ 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
🌶️ 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
🧄 1 teaspoon garlic powder
🧂 1 teaspoon salt
🫒 3 tablespoons oil

For the Rice:
🍚 5 cups basmati rice
🌶️ 1 red bell pepper
🌶️ 1 jalapeño, deveined
🧅 1 medium-sized onion
🧄 2 cloves garlic
🌶️ 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
🥄 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon
🧂 1 teaspoon salt
🍅 2 tablespoons tomato paste
🫒 2 tablespoons oil
🍗 5 cups chicken broth or water

Instructions

1- Prepare the Rice:

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for 20-30 minutes, then drain.

2- Season the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine chicken tenders with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Let it marinate while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

3- Cook the Chicken:

In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken tenders and sear for about 2 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.

4- Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same pot, add 2 more tablespoons of oil if necessary. Add diced garlic, jalapeño, onion, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about a minute until the onions become translucent.

5- Cook the Rice:

Stir in the tomato paste until well combined with the vegetables. Add chicken bouillon, Cajun seasoning, and salt.
Add the soaked and drained rice, stirring to coat the grains with the seasonings thoroughly.
Pour in chicken broth or water, then nestle the chicken tenders back into the pot.

6- Simmer to Perfection:

Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

7- Serve:

Fluff the rice with a fork, ensuring the chicken is evenly distributed. Serve hot and enjoy the delightfully bold flavors.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
Proteins: 30g
Fats: 12g
Carbohydrates: 80g
Equipment: Large pot or Dutch oven, spatula, knife, cutting board