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To make Cajun Chicken and Rice Bowls, gather these ingredients: - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 cup jasmine rice - 2 cups chicken broth or water - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 1 green bell pepper, diced - 1 small onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed - 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen) - 1 tablespoon lime juice - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro - Salt and pepper to taste - Avocado and lime wedges for garnish (optional) If you need substitutes, here are some ideas: - Chicken breasts can be swapped with thighs for more flavor. - Use brown rice instead of jasmine for a healthier option. - Any color bell pepper works if you want variety. - Canned beans can be replaced with cooked lentils. - Fresh cilantro can be swapped with parsley for a different taste. Choosing fresh ingredients is key to great flavor. Here are my tips: - Look for chicken that is pink and firm. Avoid any that looks discolored. - Choose bell peppers that are bright and firm. Avoid any soft spots. - Select jasmine rice that is dry and free of moisture. - Check canned beans for a clear label and no dents. - Fresh herbs should be vibrant and fragrant; avoid wilted ones. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, take the chicken breasts and rub them with olive oil. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning on both sides. Make sure every part is covered with flavor. Let the chicken sit for at least 15 minutes. This helps the spices sink in and makes the chicken tastier. Next, in a medium pot, add jasmine rice and chicken broth. Bring this to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover it with a lid and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes. The rice will become fluffy, and all the broth should be soaked up. While the rice cooks, heat a small amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion first. Cook it until it turns translucent, which takes about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the diced red and green bell peppers along with the minced garlic. Sauté everything for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers soften. Now, push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet. Place the marinated chicken in the empty side. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for a nice char and ensure that it is cooked through. After cooking, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest. Then, slice it into strips. In the same skillet with the sautéed veggies, add the black beans and corn. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and pour the lime juice. Then, mix in the fluffy rice. Stir everything well to combine and heat through. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Now it’s time to build your bowls! Start by layering the spiced rice mixture at the bottom. Then, place the sliced chicken strips on top of the rice. Finish by sprinkling fresh cilantro over the chicken. If you like, add avocado slices and lime wedges on the side. These toppings give a fresh burst of flavor to your dish. Enjoy your delicious Cajun Chicken and Rice Bowls! To get great flavor in your Cajun chicken and rice bowls, use fresh herbs and spices. Cajun seasoning is key, so choose a good one. Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes. This lets the flavors soak in deeply. When cooking the chicken, make sure your skillet is hot. This helps create a nice char and locks in the juices. For juicy chicken, start with boneless, skinless breasts. Rub them with olive oil and Cajun seasoning. Let them rest after cooking. This keeps the juices inside. Cook over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side. The chicken should be golden brown when done. Always check that it reaches 165°F to ensure it's safe to eat. Use jasmine rice for a fragrant and fluffy base. Cook the rice in chicken broth instead of water. This adds a lot of flavor. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Let it simmer for 15-18 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking. This helps the rice steam properly and stay fluffy. Adding a splash of lime juice at the end brightens the flavor and makes it pop. Pro Tips Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes if time permits, as this will enhance the flavors and tenderness. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly elevate the dish's flavor profile, so opt for fresh bell peppers and cilantro whenever possible. Cook Rice with Broth: Cooking the rice in chicken broth instead of water adds depth and richness to the overall flavor of the dish. Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps retain its juices, resulting in a more succulent bite. {{image_2}} You can easily make this dish vegetarian or vegan. Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Use Cajun seasoning for flavor. Consider adding more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. You can also add chickpeas for protein. Instead of chicken broth, use vegetable broth for cooking the rice. This keeps the flavors rich and satisfying. If you want different protein options, try shrimp or fish. Both pair well with Cajun spices. Grilled sausage is another tasty choice. For a heartier meal, use lentils or quinoa. These options add unique flavors and textures to your bowl. They also keep the dish exciting and fresh. While jasmine rice is great, you can use other types too. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Basmati rice works well for a fragrant touch. If you want a fun twist, try using cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. Each rice type brings its own flair to the bowl, so feel free to mix it up. To keep your Cajun chicken and rice bowls fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure to cool the food to room temperature first. Place the container in the fridge. Proper storage will keep your meal safe for up to three days. When reheating, use the microwave or a skillet. If using the microwave, cover the bowl to keep moisture in. Heat in short bursts. Stir in between to ensure even heating. If using a skillet, add a splash of water to help steam the rice. Heat on medium until warm, stirring often. This keeps the flavors bright. You can freeze Cajun chicken and rice bowls for longer storage. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. Use a freezer bag if you want to save space. Label the bag with the date. These bowls can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above for best taste. You can mix your own seasoning if you lack Cajun spices. Use paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. You can also try a mix of chili powder and dried herbs. This gives a nice flavor without being too spicy. Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Cook the chicken and rice, then store them separately. You can also prepare the veggies and sauce. When you are ready to eat, just heat everything together. It saves time on busy days. Cajun Chicken and Rice Bowls have a mild to medium spice level. The heat comes from the Cajun seasoning. If you want less heat, reduce the amount you use. Add yogurt or sour cream to balance the spice if needed. You can serve this dish with coleslaw or a green salad. Cornbread is also a great option to pair with the bowls. For a refreshing touch, consider serving sliced cucumbers or a fruit salad on the side. Yes, you can use other rice types. Brown rice offers a nutty flavor and is more filling. Quinoa is a healthy choice too. Just remember that cooking times will change, so adjust accordingly for the best results. Cajun Chicken and Rice Bowls are fun to make and enjoy. We covered key ingredients, fresh tips, and cooking steps. Try different flavors, and consider veggie swaps. Storing leftovers is easy, too. This dish fits many tastes and kitchen skills. I hope you feel ready to make your own. Enjoy creating your flavorful bowls!

Cajun Chicken & Spiced Rice Bowls

A flavorful dish featuring Cajun-seasoned chicken served over spiced rice with vegetables and beans.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 2 breasts boneless, skinless chicken
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup jasmine rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1 piece red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 piece green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.25 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • optional Avocado and lime wedges for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with Cajun seasoning. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  • In a medium pot, combine jasmine rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until rice is fluffy and broth is absorbed.
  • In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, cooking until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the red and green bell peppers and minced garlic, sautéing for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers are tender.
  • Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the seasoned chicken. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.
  • Add black beans, corn, smoked paprika, lime juice, and the cooked rice to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to combine and heat through, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Slice the grilled chicken into strips. In serving bowls, layer the spiced rice mixture and top with sliced chicken.
  • Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve with avocado slices and lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Notes

Let the chicken marinate for more flavor.
Keyword bowls, Cajun, chicken, rice, spiced