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Homemade One Pan Southwest Blackened Cajun Chicken with Rice photo

One Pan Southwest Blackened Cajun Chicken with Rice

A simple one-pan Southwest-inspired meal of blackened Cajun chicken cooked with seasoned rice, beans, and tomatoes.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 2 cups long grain rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 15-ounce can black beans drained
  • 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes with juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin
  • fresh chopped parsley for garnish
  • sliced avocado for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • plate and foil
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry. Rub each breast evenly with the 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook 3–4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate and tent with foil.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium and add the 2 cups long grain rice to the skillet; stir briefly to coat with any remaining oil.
  5. Stir in 3 cups chicken broth, the drained 15-ounce can of black beans, the 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes with juice, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon cumin. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Once simmering, reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook 20–25 minutes until the rice has absorbed the liquid and is tender.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice, cover, and heat briefly until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with sliced avocado.

Notes

  • Use pre-seasoned Cajun spice if available.
  • Drain the black beans well before adding.
  • Check rice for doneness at 20 minutes to avoid overcooking.
  • Let the chicken rest briefly before serving.