Easy Cajun Chicken and Rice

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine ingredients for cajun seasoning - smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Mix together.

Step 2

Season chicken with half of the cajun seasoning (the rest will be used later in the recipe) and salt and pepper as desired. Add sliced bacon to a skillet over medium low heat. Allow bacon to cook and render out the fat, about 10 minutes, stir occasionally. Add 1 tbsp butter and a drizzle of olive and and increase the heat to medium. Add chicken and sear on both sides, about 3 minutes per side.

Step 3

Remove chicken from the skillet onto a plate. Add onions, peppers, and celery to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper and a teaspoon of the cajun seasoning. Cook for 3-5 minutes, until everything begins to soften and become fragrant.

Step 4

Add rice and stir into the vegetables. Add chicken stock, squeeze one lemon, and add chicken back into the skillet. Bring to a boil and then cover with a lid and simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Step 5

In a separate skillet or saucepan, add heavy cream, diced garlic, tomato paste, and remaining cajun seasoning. Heat over low heat until mixture begins to thicken. Then squeeze lemon juice into the sauce and remove from the heat. Whisk ingredients together to ensure lemon juice is fully incorporated. Season with a pinch of salt.

Step 6

Once rice is finished, pour sauce into the skillet with the chicken and rice. Mix together. Slice chicken and toss together.