Cajun Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: Cajun Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, diced; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish; Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Vitality Meal Guide

I love preparing this Cajun Chicken Rice Bowl because it brings together vibrant flavors that can’t help but excite the palate. It’s my go-to recipe for busy weeknights when I crave something filling yet quick to make. The combination of tender, spicy chicken, rice, and fresh vegetables creates a delightful balance, making each bite a satisfying experience. With just a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients, this dish allows me to serve up something delicious while keeping the prep under 30 minutes.

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-02-23T14:18:19.296Z

When I first tried making a Cajun Chicken Rice Bowl, I was amazed at how easily the flavors melded together. The spices used in the Cajun seasoning really elevate the chicken, giving it a robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy rice. I discovered that letting the chicken marinate for just a few minutes in the seasoning enhances its overall taste, making it wonderfully aromatic and juicy.

While experimenting with this recipe, I found that using a long-grain rice, like jasmine or basmati, adds a pleasant texture. The rice also absorbs all the delicious juices and spices from the chicken, making each bite incredibly flavorful. To add a fresh element, I love topping my bowl with finely chopped green onions and a squeeze of lime, which brightens everything up and creates a colorful presentation.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bold Cajun flavors that pack a punch
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for meal prep

Flavorful Chicken Techniques

Getting the chicken perfectly cooked and packed with flavor is essential for this dish. When mixing the Cajun seasoning with salt and pepper, I recommend using freshly cracked pepper for an extra depth of flavor. Make sure to let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes; this allows the spices to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish. If you have time, you could even marinate it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours for a more intense taste.

When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear. Ideally, there should be enough space for the pieces to brown evenly, creating a nice crust that locks in juices. You’ll know it’s ready to flip when the edges are golden and release easily from the pan—typically around 5-7 minutes on medium-high heat should do the trick.

Vegetable Variations and Additions

The bell pepper and corn add color and sweetness to balance the spiciness of the Cajun seasoning. However, feel free to mix in other vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. Zucchini, spinach, or even black beans can be excellent additions. Just ensure any softer vegetables you choose are added towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking them and losing their vibrant colors and texture.

For those who enjoy a little extra heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken during cooking. This will complement the Cajun flavors beautifully. Alternatively, if you’d like a milder dish, omitting the Cajun seasoning entirely and substituting it with a mild herb blend can create a similar comforting effect without the heat.

Storage and Serving Tips

If you have leftovers, this Cajun Chicken Rice Bowl stores well in the fridge for up to three days. For optimal freshness, keep the chicken and vegetables separate from the rice until you’re ready to eat. Reheating the chicken and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat will help retain their moisture and flavor, while the rice can be microwaved with a splash of additional broth to keep it fluffy.

I love serving this dish with lime wedges on the side, as the acidity from the lime brightens up the flavors beautifully. For a complete meal, pair the rice bowl with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. If you’re looking to elevate this dish further, trying it with a sprinkle of feta cheese or a drizzle of creamy dressing can add another layer of richness that complements the spiciness of the chicken.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, diced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish
Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the jasmine rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork once finished.

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the diced chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.

Cook the Chicken and Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Then, add the diced bell pepper and corn, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Assemble the Bowl

Divide the cooked rice between bowls, top with the Cajun chicken and vegetable mixture, and garnish with chopped green onions and lime wedges.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken. You can also customize the veggies based on what you have on hand
zucchini or black beans work beautifully in this dish.

Key Techniques

When cooking jasmine rice, it's essential to use the right ratio of liquid to ensure fluffy grains. If you find that your rice often turns sticky or clumps together, you can rinse it under cold water before cooking. This process removes excess starch, allowing each grain to remain separate and light. Remember that all stovetops vary, so keep an eye on the heat level to avoid burning while simmering.

A good non-stick skillet can make a significant difference when searing chicken. Not only does it help achieve that lovely golden crust, but it also makes cleaning up a breeze. If you notice your chicken is sticking, it might not be cooked enough on that side yet. Patience is key!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have chicken breasts on hand, boneless, skinless thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and offer a juicier result. Alternatively, you could swap the chicken for shrimp, adjusting the cooking time to just 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque. For a vegetarian option, consider using chickpeas or tempeh; just sauté them with the same Cajun seasoning to absorb those delicious flavors.

Should you find yourself without Cajun seasoning, a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper can be a great substitute. This will yield a similar smoky and spicy flavor profile that complements the dish beautifully.

Make-Ahead Ideas

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can cook the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the skillet when you're ready to enjoy your bowl. Another time-saving tip is to cook a larger batch of jasmine rice to have on hand—cooked rice freezes well and can be stored in portions, so you can easily pull out what you need later.

If you’re looking to enjoy this dish throughout the week, consider preparing the spice mix in advance and storing it in an air-tight container. This way, you’ll have it ready to go, making your weeknight cooking even quicker.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of rice?

Absolutely! You can substitute jasmine with basmati, brown rice, or even quinoa. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of rice used.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Cajun Chicken Rice Bowl stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth to maintain the flavor profile.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This bowl is delicious on its own, but it pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavors.