A bold and satisfying Cajun-inspired dish made in a single skillet, this recipe combines seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, colorful vegetables, and a touch of tropical sweetness from mango or pineapple. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s high in protein, full of fresh flavor, and perfect for weeknight cooking or meal prep.
Prepare and Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) on a clean cutting board. Pat them completely dry with paper towels — this helps the seasoning stick and allows for better browning later. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, rubbing it in with your hands or a brush to lightly coat all sides. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly over the meat, turning each piece so both sides are fully covered. This initial seasoning step locks in flavor and gives the chicken its signature spicy kick.
Create a Honey-Butter Base: Set a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt until it’s foamy and fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the honey, blending it with the butter to create a glossy, slightly sweet coating. This mixture will caramelize on the chicken, giving it a golden crust and a hint of sweetness that balances the Cajun spices.
Sear the Chicken for Flavor: Carefully lay the seasoned chicken pieces in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if needed). Let them sear undisturbed for 1–2 minutes per side, just until they develop a rich golden-brown crust. The goal here isn’t to cook them through, but to seal in the juices and deepen the flavor.Once both sides are browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add the sliced celery, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic directly into the flavorful drippings left behind from the chicken.If the pan looks dry, melt an extra tablespoon of butter before adding the vegetables. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until the vegetables begin to soften and the garlic becomes fragrant. These vegetables not only add flavor but also provide a tender, colorful base for the rice.
Toast the Rice and Seasonings: Pour the uncooked long-grain white rice into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir gently to coat each grain in the butter and vegetable mixture — this light toasting enhances the rice’s nutty flavor and helps it cook evenly. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, stirring again so the spices are evenly distributed throughout the rice and vegetables.
Add Broth and Simmer: Carefully pour the chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine and loosen any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (those bits are pure flavor!). Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a steady simmer.
Cook Chicken and Rice Together: Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet, placing them directly on top of the rice mixture. The steam and moisture from the simmering rice will help finish cooking the chicken while infusing it with flavor. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and let the dish cook for 15–20 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time — keeping the steam trapped ensures fluffy rice and tender chicken.
Check for Doneness: After 15 minutes, lift the lid and check the rice. The grains should be tender, and most of the liquid should be absorbed. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the chicken — it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).If the rice is still firm or there’s too much liquid, cover and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Add Fresh and Sweet Finishing Touches: Once everything is cooked, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Top the dish with diced mango (or pineapple, if preferred) for a burst of sweetness. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top for a fresh, herbaceous lift.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the chicken directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.Offer lime wedges on the side for squeezing over each serving, adding a bright, zesty kick that ties all the flavors together. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed greens for a complete meal.
Notes
Using chicken thighs instead of breasts offers more moisture and richer flavor.
Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste—start with less if you prefer mild spice.
Mango or pineapple adds a sweet contrast; canned salsa can be a quick alternative.
Make sure to rinse rice before cooking to remove excess starch for fluffier results.
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Avoid lifting the lid while simmering to trap steam and cook rice perfectly.
Leftovers reheat well, but add a splash of broth or water to revive the rice’s moisture.