Introduction
Spicy Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers and Rice is a vibrant and hearty dish that captures the bold and soulful flavors of Cajun cuisine. This recipe combines juicy, well-seasoned chicken with smoky Cajun spices, sweet and colorful bell peppers, and fluffy rice—all cooked together in one skillet for maximum flavor. Every bite is a perfect balance of heat, spice, and comfort, making it an ideal dish for anyone who loves bold flavors and satisfying meals.
What makes this dish so special is its simplicity and versatility—you don’t need complicated ingredients to create a restaurant-quality meal. The Cajun seasoning infuses the chicken and rice with deep, smoky notes, while the peppers add freshness and natural sweetness to balance the spice. It’s wholesome, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even serving at family gatherings.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s the kind of dish that brings both comfort and excitement to the table. The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, garlicky, and slightly spicy kick that instantly wakes up the taste buds. Pair that with juicy, tender chicken and the natural sweetness of colorful bell peppers, and you’ve got a dish that feels like a warm hug with a spicy twist.
Another reason I love it is its one-pan convenience—everything cooks together, which means fewer dishes and more flavor as the rice absorbs all the spices and chicken juices. It’s hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own but versatile enough to be dressed up with extra veggies, cheese, or even shrimp if you’re feeling adventurous.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
This dish is a must-try because it delivers restaurant-worthy Cajun flavors right in your own kitchen with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, smoky spices, and colorful bell peppers over perfectly cooked rice creates a meal that is not only satisfying but also visually stunning.
It’s a dish that checks all the boxes:
- Flavor-packed – every bite bursts with smoky, garlicky, and spicy Cajun seasoning balanced by sweet peppers.
- Balanced and wholesome – protein, carbs, and vegetables come together in one skillet.
- Family-friendly – the spice can be adjusted to suit everyone’s taste.
- Meal-prep friendly – reheats beautifully, making it great for busy weeks.
Recipe Time & Serving Info
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~480 per serving (varies with chicken cut and oil used)
Cuisine & Course
- Cuisine: Cajun / Creole (Southern American)
- Course: Main Course (Lunch/Dinner)
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Seasoning:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Rice & Vegetables:
- 1 cup long-grain rice (jasmine or basmati)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 medium onion (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or oregano)
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon or lime wedges (optional, for brightness)
Simple Cooking Directions
- Season and sear chicken until golden brown.
- Sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers with Cajun spices.
- Add rice and broth, then simmer until rice is fluffy and chicken is cooked.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
- Add seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened (about 4–5 minutes).
- Add Rice & Broth:
- Stir in rice, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Mix well so the rice absorbs the spices.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, until rice is tender and broth is absorbed.
- Combine Chicken & Finish:
- Return cooked chicken to the pan. Stir gently to combine everything.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon/lime juice if desired.
How to Serve
- Serve hot, straight from the skillet, for a rustic family-style meal.
- Pair with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad.
- A dollop of sour cream or avocado slices can balance the spice.
Additional Recipe Tips
- Adjust spice level: Add less cayenne if you prefer mild heat.
- Homemade Cajun seasoning: Blend paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Rice tip: Do not stir rice too often while cooking—it can become mushy.
- For extra depth: Add diced tomatoes or tomato paste with the broth.
Variations
- Shrimp Cajun Rice: Replace chicken with shrimp, adding them in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Vegetarian Version: Use chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken.
- Cheesy Cajun Rice: Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese before serving.
- Cajun Sausage & Chicken: Add sliced smoked sausage along with chicken for a heartier dish.
Freezing & Storage
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in meal-prep containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or microwave until hot.
Special Equipment Needed
- Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
Conclusion
Spicy Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers and Rice is a hearty, flavorful, and colorful dish that brings the soulful taste of Cajun cuisine straight to your table. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests. With its mix of spices, tender chicken, and fluffy rice, this dish is a must-try comfort food that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Spicy Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers and Rice
Description
I love this recipe because it’s the kind of dish that brings both comfort and excitement to the table. The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, garlicky, and slightly spicy kick that instantly wakes up the taste buds. Pair that with juicy, tender chicken and the natural sweetness of colorful bell peppers, and you’ve got a dish that feels like a warm hug with a spicy twist.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Seasoning:
For the Rice & Vegetables:
Garnish:
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken : In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
-
Sear the Chicken : Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
-
Cook the Vegetables : In the same pan, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened (about 4–5 minutes).
-
Add Rice & Broth : Stir in rice, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Mix well so the rice absorbs the spices.Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
-
Simmer : Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, until rice is tender and broth is absorbed.
-
Combine Chicken & Finish : Return cooked chicken to the pan. Stir gently to combine everything.Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon/lime juice if desired.
