Description
A hearty and flavorful Cajun rice dish with chicken, smoked sausage, and a mix of vegetables, seasoned with classic spices.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-size pieces
- 12 oz smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery ribs, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional but classic)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (for deeper flavor)
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust based on broth/seasoning)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove to a plate.
- Add remaining 1 tbsp oil. Season chicken with a little Cajun seasoning, then sear 3–4 minutes until lightly browned (not fully cooked). Remove to the plate with sausage.
- Add onion, bell peppers, and celery to the pan. Cook 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add rice and stir 1 minute to coat and lightly toast.
- Stir in tomato paste, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, cayenne, diced tomatoes (if using), and chicken broth.
- Return chicken and sausage to the pan. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook 18–20 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Turn off heat and let sit covered 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Top with green onions (and parsley) and enjoy hot.
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne or Cajun seasoning for more or less heat.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg