Cajun Chicken Bowl

Bring a vibrant taste of the South to your dinner table with this flavor-packed Cajun Chicken Bowl. This satisfying meal combines spicy, tender chicken with fluffy rice and a colorful array of fresh vegetables, making it a perfect choice for an easy yet impressive weeknight dinner.

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This Southern-inspired dish is as nutritious as it is delicious, featuring black beans, sweet corn, and vibrant bell peppers for a meal that hits every flavor note from spicy to sweet.

Ingredients

• Chicken: 500 g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, 1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning, 1 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
• Rice: 200 g (1 cup) long-grain white rice, 480 ml (2 cups) water, ½ tsp salt
• Vegetables & Beans: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 red bell pepper (diced), 1 yellow bell pepper (diced), 1 small red onion (diced), 150 g (1 cup) sweet corn kernels, 400 g (1 can) black beans (drained and rinsed)
• Garnishes: 1 avocado (sliced), fresh cilantro (chopped), lime wedges

Instructions

Cook the rice

Rinse rice under cold water. In a saucepan, combine rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Prepare the chicken

In a medium bowl, toss chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 2 minutes, then slice.

Sauté vegetables

In the same skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add bell peppers and red onion. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in corn and black beans; cook for 2 minutes until heated through. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Assemble bowls

Divide rice among 4 bowls. Top with sautéed vegetables and beans, then sliced chicken. Garnish with avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the chicken. Ensure you use a large skillet to provide enough room for the vegetables and beans to heat through evenly.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Substitute brown rice or quinoa for a whole-grain option. This dish is also great served with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese for added creaminess.

Serviervorschläge

Pair this bowl with a crisp lager or a light white wine to complement the bold Cajun spices. Always serve with fresh lime wedges for a bright, acidic finish.

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This Cajun Chicken Bowl is a versatile, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that brings excitement to your routine. Enjoy the balance of fresh produce and bold seasonings in every bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ How spicy is this bowl?

The heat level is moderate and family-friendly. Cajun seasoning provides a nice warmth without being overpowering. For extra heat, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

→ Can I meal prep these bowls?

Absolutely. These bowls store beautifully for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Keep components separate and reheat gently before serving for best texture.

→ What other grains work well?

Brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice make excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking times accordingly—brown rice needs about 40 minutes, while quinoa cooks in 15 minutes.

→ Is this gluten-free?

Yes, this bowl is naturally gluten-free when using certified gluten-free Cajun seasoning. Always check seasoning blends as some contain wheat-based thickeners.

→ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Toss with Cajun seasoning and warm through in the skillet before assembling bowls. This reduces prep time significantly.

→ What proteins can substitute chicken?

Andouille sausage, shrimp, or even firm tofu work beautifully. Adjust cooking times—shrimp needs only 2-3 minutes per side, while sausage slices need about 5 minutes.