Description
This creamy Cajun chicken paired with fragrant garlic rice delivers big flavor without feeling heavy or boring. Think tender chicken coated in smoky spice, fluffy rice infused with savory aromatics, and a smooth, rich sauce that ties everything together beautifully. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet still fits perfectly into a feel-good, balanced lifestyle. Ideal for cozy nights in or when you want to impress without overcomplicating dinner.
Ingredients
Homemade Cajun Spice Blend
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Chicken Preparation
- 800g chicken breast, sliced in half lengthwise
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun spice mix
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 25g grass-fed butter for cooking
Garlic Cajun Rice
- 2 cups uncooked long-grain rice (or 4 cups cooked, preferably day-old)
- 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tablespoon Cajun spice mix
- Fresh parsley for finishing
Creamy Cajun Sauce
- 15g grass-fed butter
- ½ tablespoon Cajun spice mix
- 250ml milk
- 150g light cream cheese
- 40g grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Start by combining the chicken with olive oil and the Cajun seasoning until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully absorb. This step makes a huge difference, FYI.
- When ready to cook, heat a large pan over medium-high and melt the butter. Add the marinated chicken and sear until each piece turns beautifully golden with lightly crisp edges. Remove from the pan and allow it to rest briefly before slicing into strips. This keeps it juicy and flavorful.
- Using the same pan, sauté the diced red onion and garlic until soft and aromatic. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, then add the cooked rice. Stir well so the grains absorb all those rich, spiced flavors and become evenly coated.
- To make the sauce, reduce the heat to low and melt the butter in a clean section of the pan or a separate saucepan. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, then slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously. Once warm, add the cream cheese and Parmesan. Keep stirring until the mixture turns silky and smooth with no lumps.
- To serve, spread a layer of Cajun rice onto the plate, place the sliced chicken on top, and spoon over the creamy sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness.
Notes
- Let the chicken marinate as long as possible for deeper flavor.
- Cook over medium-high heat to achieve that crave-worthy crust.
- Resting the chicken before cutting helps retain its juices.
- Day-old rice works best as it stays firm and fluffy.
- Always keep the sauce on low heat to avoid separation or curdling.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 532 kcal