Spicy Cajun BBQ Chicken & Rice Skillet

Contents show

1 Ingredients

1.1 For the Chicken:

1.2 For the Rice and Sauce:

1.3 For Garnishing:

2 Step-by-Step Instructions

2.1 Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

2.2 Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

2.3 Step 3: Toast the Rice

2.4 Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

2.5 Step 5: Final Touches and Garnishing

3 Tips for Perfecting the Dish

4 Variations of the Dish

5 Conservation and Storage

5.1 Refrigeration:

5.2 Freezing:

5.3 Meal Prep Tip:

6 Serving Suggestions

7 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

7.1 1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

7.2 2. How can I make this dish less spicy?

7.3 3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

7.4 4. What type of BBQ sauce works best?

7.5 5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

7.6 6. What can I serve with this dish?

7.7 7. How do I store leftovers?

7.8 8. Can I add beans or other proteins?

7.9 9. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

7.10 10. Can I make it dairy-free?

8 Conclusion

9 Spicy Cajun BBQ Chicken & Rice Skillet

9.1 Description

9.2 Ingredients

9.3 For the Chicken:

9.4 For the Rice and Sauce:

9.5 For Garnishing:

9.6 Instructions

9.7 Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

9.8 Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

9.9 Step 3: Toast the Rice

9.10 Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

9.11 Step 5: Final Touches and Garnishing

9.12 Nutrition

9.13 Did you make this recipe?

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Craving a bold, one-pan meal bursting with smoky, spicy, and savory flavors? This Spicy Cajun BBQ Chicken & Rice Skillet is the perfect dish to satisfy your taste buds. It combines juicy, spice-rubbed chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, tangy BBQ-infused sauce—all cooked together in one skillet for maximum flavor.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights since it requires minimal cleanup and comes together in just under an hour. The Cajun seasoning adds a signature Southern kick, while the BBQ sauce balances the heat with its smoky sweetness. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is both comforting and nutritious.

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious, flavor-packed meal step by step!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust based on preference)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice and Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• ½ red bell pepper, diced
• ½ green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (hickory-smoked or spicy preferred)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

For Garnishing:

• 2 green onions, sliced
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Ensure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
2. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add the seasoned chicken and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet, as it will finish cooking with the rice.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

5. Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet.
6. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper, stirring occasionally until they become soft (about 3-4 minutes).
7. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

8. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir for about 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it. This helps enhance the flavor and prevent mushy rice.

Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

9. Pour in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine.
10. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture.
11. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid.
12. Let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Final Touches and Garnishing

13. Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Let it sit covered for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
14. Fluff the rice with a fork, ensuring everything is well combined.
15. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese (if using), sliced green onions, and fresh parsley.
16. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

1. Use Fresh Cajun Seasoning: Homemade Cajun seasoning can elevate the flavors. Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme for a DIY blend.
2. Toast the Rice for Better Texture: Lightly toasting the rice before adding liquid enhances its texture and adds a subtle nutty flavor.
3. Control the Spice Level: Adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the Cajun seasoning and hot sauce. For a milder version, use a sweet BBQ sauce.
4. Use a Heavy-Bottomed Skillet: A cast-iron or deep nonstick skillet ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
5. Let the Dish Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit covered for 5 minutes after cooking helps the rice fully absorb the flavors.

Variations of the Dish

1. Protein Swap: Instead of chicken, use shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different twist.
2. Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with mushrooms and add extra vegetables like zucchini or corn.
3. Cheesy Cajun Chicken & Rice: Stir in shredded cheese while the rice is still hot for a creamy, cheesy texture.
4. Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer dish.
5. Grilled Chicken Option: Grill the Cajun-spiced chicken separately and serve it over the rice for extra smokiness.

Conservation and Storage

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture.

Freezing:

• Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave.

Meal Prep Tip:

Divide into individual portions and store in meal-prep containers for quick, ready-to-eat lunches.

Serving Suggestions

1. With a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with ranch or vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the bold Cajun flavors.
2. Cornbread: A warm slice of honey butter cornbread complements the smoky BBQ taste.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside grilled asparagus, zucchini, or roasted sweet potatoes.
4. Avocado Slices: The creaminess of avocado balances the spiciness of the dish.
5. Tortilla Chips: Scoop up the rice and chicken with crunchy tortilla chips for a fun twist!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! However, brown rice takes longer to cook and requires more liquid. Use 2 ½ cups of chicken broth instead of 2 cups, and extend the simmering time to 35-40 minutes until the rice is tender.

2. How can I make this dish less spicy?

To reduce the heat:

• Use less Cajun seasoning (start with ½ teaspoon instead of 1 teaspoon).
• Choose a mild BBQ sauce instead of a spicy or smoky one.
• Skip the hot sauce or reduce the amount.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt when serving to balance the spice.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. Cook it as instructed, let it cool, and store it in airtight containers. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or water for moisture.

4. What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A hickory-smoked, honey BBQ, or spicy BBQ sauce works best. If you like a more tangy flavor, use a vinegar-based BBQ sauce. For a sweeter touch, go with a honey or brown sugar BBQ sauce.

5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add more juiciness and flavor. Cut them into bite-sized pieces and cook them the same way as chicken breasts.

6. What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with:

• A side salad with a tangy dressing
• Cornbread or garlic bread
• Roasted or grilled vegetables
• Avocado slices for a creamy contrast

7. How do I store leftovers?

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stove with a little broth or microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

8. Can I add beans or other proteins?

Yes! You can add black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber. If you want to mix proteins, try shrimp, sausage, or tofu.

9. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, but for best results:

• Sear the chicken first.
• Add all ingredients (except cheese and garnishes) to the slow cooker.
• Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours until the rice is tender.
• Stir and top with cheese and garnishes before serving.

10. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Simply skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally dairy-free.

Conclusion

This Spicy Cajun BBQ Chicken & Rice Skillet is a flavorful, one-pan wonder that delivers heat, smokiness, and comforting textures in every bite. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

Whether you prefer a spicier kick, a cheesy variation, or a creamy twist, this dish is incredibly versatile. Plus, it stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Try it today and bring a taste of the South to your dinner table!

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