A delightful and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of cheesy garlic parmesan chicken with creamy, buttery Cajun rice. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a balanced blend of savory, creamy, and spicy notes that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Cajun Rice:

1 1/2 cups long grain rice
3 cups chicken broth
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

Step 1: Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Ensure each piece is evenly coated with the spices.

Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. This typically takes about 5-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, add unsalted butter and minced garlic. Sauté for approximately 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream, and stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese. Simmer the sauce over low heat until it thickens, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This may take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and ensure each piece is thoroughly coated with the cheesy garlic parmesan sauce.

Step 6: While the chicken is simmering in the sauce, prepare the Cajun rice. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the long grain rice and sauté for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to lightly toast the rice.

Step 7: Stir in the chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.

Step 8: Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains.

Step 9: To serve, place a generous portion of the buttery Cajun rice on a plate, top with the cheesy garlic parmesan chicken, and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser because it combines the best of both worlds: comforting flavors and easy preparation. The creamy garlic parmesan chicken is rich and satisfying, while the buttery Cajun rice adds a delightful kick that complements the chicken perfectly. It’s a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. It pairs well with a side of steamed broccoli or a crisp garden salad to balance the richness of the main course.

Tips:

For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Cajun rice or the garlic parmesan sauce.
To ensure the chicken remains tender, avoid overcooking it during the searing process.
Feel free to substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
If you don’t have heavy cream, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce may not be as thick.

Preparation Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

40 minutes

Nutritional Information:

Calories: Approximately 620 kcal per serving (This is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.) Protein: Approximately 45g Sodium: Approximately 800mg (This can vary based on the amount of salt and sodium-rich ingredients used.)

Conclusion

This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken over Buttery Cajun Rice recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and sure to impress. The combination of creamy, cheesy chicken and flavorful Cajun rice makes for a memorable dining experience. Enjoy!

Questions and Answers About This Recipe

Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of long grain rice?

A1: Yes, you can use brown rice. However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly. Brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time (around 45 minutes).

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and rice separately ahead of time and combine them when ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prepping.

Q3: What can I substitute for heavy cream if I don’t have any on hand?

A3: You can use half-and-half as a substitute, but the sauce may not be as thick. You can also try using a mixture of milk and a little cornstarch to help thicken the sauce.

Q4: Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

A4: Yes, you can substitute the chicken with grilled or pan-fried tofu or tempeh. You can also add some vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauce for added flavor and texture.

Q5: How spicy is the Cajun rice?

A5: The spiciness of the Cajun rice depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. Most store-bought Cajun seasonings have a mild to medium level of spice. You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preference or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.

I hope you enjoy this recipe and find it easy to follow!