Description
This Cajun Rice recipe is a flavorful Southern-style dish packed with bold spices, tender rice, and sautéed vegetables. Infused with classic Cajun seasonings, it’s the perfect side dish or hearty base for grilled meats, seafood, or chicken.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (200g) long-grain white rice
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground sausage or ground beef (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- If using sausage or ground beef, add it to the pan and cook until browned. Remove excess grease if necessary.
- Add onion, bell peppers, celery, and garlic to the pan. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in rice, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, thyme, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 1–2 minutes to toast the rice and release flavor.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff rice with a fork, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, skip the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference — add cayenne for extra heat.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Pairs perfectly with blackened chicken, grilled shrimp, or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun / Creole