Description
This flavorful Cajun Rice recipe combines aromatic vegetables and spices with long-grain white rice simmered in broth to create a vibrant, comforting side dish perfect for pairing with grilled chicken, shrimp, or any Cajun-style protein.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped (green or red)
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Rice & Spices
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquids & Garnish
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large saucepan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Rice and Spices: Add the rice to the pan, stirring to coat the rice in the oil and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Add the Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff and Serve: Remove the pan from the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains, then remove the bay leaf. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve: Serve the Cajun rice as a side dish with grilled chicken, shrimp, or your favorite Cajun-style protein. Alternatively, use it as a base for a hearty one-pot meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity according to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch for fluffier rice.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add cooked andouille sausage or shrimp to turn this into a complete Cajun rice meal.
