When you’re craving something cozy, flavorful, and quick to prepare, these Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice Bowls deliver big time. Loaded with zesty Cajun flavor, this one-pot dish brings together tender chicken, vegetables, and fluffy rice coated in a silky, creamy sauce — all without the need for heavy cream. It’s a warm and hearty meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights, simple family dinners, or anyone looking for that perfect balance of spice and comfort in a single bowl.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a total win for anyone who wants big flavor with little fuss. Everything cooks in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. The chicken is juicy and flavorful, the rice soaks up all the bold spices, and the creaminess comes naturally from milk and the starch in the rice — no heavy cream required. You can tweak the spice level to match your taste, and the leftovers reheat like a dream. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding the family, this dish checks every box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing, this oil gives the chicken and vegetables a golden finish and prevents sticking.
Chicken (1 pound, boneless and skinless): Cut into bite-sized pieces. Thighs are juicier, but breasts work well if you want a leaner option.
Cajun or Creole Seasoning (2 ½ teaspoons, divided): A robust mix of spices that gives the dish its signature kick. Choose store-bought or homemade depending on your preference.
Yellow Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds a sweet base note that complements the spice.
Celery (2 stalks, diced): Brings freshness and a bit of crunch to the mix.
Green Bell Pepper (1 medium, diced): Adds a mild tang and some vibrant color to balance the dish.
Long-Grain White Rice (1 ½ cups): Keeps its shape well and creates a creamy texture when cooked with milk.
Garlic (2 cloves, finely chopped): Delivers a punch of flavor that deepens the dish.
Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor and balances the spice.
Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Offers a hint of heat and a bit of sharpness.
Milk (2 ½ cups, whole or 2%): The key to that creamy texture without using cream. It binds beautifully with the starch from the rice.
Chicken Broth or Water (½ cup): Adds moisture and helps cook the rice evenly. Broth adds more depth of flavor.
Scallions (4, thinly sliced): A bright, fresh garnish that finishes the dish with a light oniony taste.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice Bowls
You’ll love how easily this recipe comes together. First, the chicken is seasoned and seared to lock in flavor. Then, the classic Cajun vegetable trio — onion, celery, and bell pepper — is sautéed until tender. The rice is toasted to release its aroma, then simmered in milk and broth until it becomes soft and creamy. As everything cooks together, the chicken finishes cooking and the flavors meld beautifully. A sprinkle of scallions on top adds the perfect fresh finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Add it to the pot in a single layer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes without stirring, until golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the onion, celery, and bell pepper to the same pot. Cook for about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and aromatic.
Step 3: Add Rice and Seasoning
Stir in the rice, garlic, remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toast the rice for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring often to coat it in the spices.
Step 4: Pour in Liquids
Add the milk and broth (or water). Stir well to combine, scraping the bottom of the pot to prevent anything from sticking.
Step 5: Return Chicken to the Pot
Place the chicken and its juices back into the pot. Stir everything together gently and bring to a simmer.
Step 6: Cover and Cook
Lower the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let everything cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Take the pot off the heat. Keep it covered and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then uncover and sprinkle sliced scallions over the top before serving.
Helpful Tips
To avoid sticking, stir the pot a few times while simmering. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of warm milk or broth to loosen it up. A Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pan works best for even cooking. Want it extra creamy? Stir in a small pat of butter just before serving. For more heat, add cayenne or hot sauce to taste.
Details
Flavor: Smoky, spicy, and savory with a creamy finish
Texture: Juicy chicken, soft vegetables, and tender, creamy rice
Occasion: Great for family dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 to 6
Notes: Variations and Substitutions
You can use turkey, shrimp, or sausage instead of chicken. For a meatless version, chickpeas or tofu make a great alternative. Want to skip dairy? Use plant-based milk like oat or almond, and add olive oil for richness. Try adding chopped spinach, corn, or even frozen peas near the end of cooking for extra nutrition. If using brown rice, extend the cooking time and add a bit more liquid.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What gives this dish its creaminess without cream?
The milk combines with the natural starch from the rice, creating a creamy consistency without needing heavy cream.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep. It stores well and reheats easily with a splash of milk or broth.
Which rice works best for this recipe?
Long-grain white rice holds its shape and cooks evenly, making it the best choice here.
Is this dish very spicy?
It has a mild to moderate kick depending on your Cajun seasoning. You can tone it down or spice it up to your liking.
Storage Instructions
Allow the dish to cool fully before transferring it to containers. Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove with a little broth or milk to restore the creamy texture, or microwave until hot.
Print
Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice Bowls | One-Pot Comfort with a Kick
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
Description
These Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice Bowls combine tender chicken, vegetables, and rice in a bold Cajun-spiced creamy sauce. Made in one pot with no heavy cream required, it’s a comforting dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 1/2 teaspoons Cajun or Creole seasoning, divided
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 medium celery stalks, diced
1 medium green bell pepper, diced
1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 1/2 cups whole or 2% milk
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
4 scallions, thinly sliced
Instructions
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss chicken with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Add onion, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 6 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in rice, garlic, remaining seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toast for 1–2 minutes.
4. Pour in milk and broth, stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the pot, bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Cover and cook on low heat for 15–20 minutes until rice is tender.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with scallions and serve.
Notes
Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or tofu.
Use oat or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
Add spinach, corn, or peas for extra veggies.
Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Conclusion
Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice Bowls bring together everything you want in a comforting, flavorful dish — all in one pot. From the seasoned chicken to the creamy, spice-infused rice, every bite is satisfying. It’s simple, adaptable, and ideal for anyone who loves bold Southern-inspired flavors without a lot of hassle. Cook it once, and it’ll become a regular part of your rotation.