Easy Flavorful Cajun Rice

This Cajun Rice brings a burst of flavor from bell peppers, red onion, and the smoky warmth of Cajun seasoning. It’s a versatile side dish that complements everything from grilled meats to seafood, or it can shine as a hearty base for stuffed peppers or rice bowls. With just a handful of ingredients and about 45 minutes, this recipe gives you a comforting, flavorful dish that’s become a regular on my table.

I first made this during a busy weeknight and now it’s a goto side whenever I want something flavorful but fussfree. My family especially loves it when I toss in some cooked sausage or shrimp for an easy onepan dinner.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: for sautéing and adding a subtle fruity richness choose extra virgin for best flavor
• Medium green bell pepper: provides a mild vegetal sweetness and nice color contrast pick firm, bright peppers without wrinkles
• Medium red onion: adds color and a slightly sweet sharpness fresh onions have tight, shiny skins
• Lowsodium chicken broth: controls the saltiness so you can adjust to taste vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version
• Cajun seasoning: a blend of spices like paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and herbs that deliver the smoky, spicy kick opt for a quality blend or make your own for best results
• Longgrain white rice: gives the perfect texture here avoid quick cooking rice for this recipe because it won’t absorb flavors the same way

Instructions

Sauté the vegetables:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add diced green bell pepper and red onion. Cook for about five minutes until the pepper softens and the onion turns translucent. This step builds the essential flavor base for the rice.

Add rice and spices:

Stir in the longgrain white rice and Cajun seasoning. Mixing these early lets the rice toast slightly, intensifying the spices.

Pour in broth and bring to a boil:

Add the lowsodium chicken broth and stir well. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil, ensuring the rice begins to absorb all those bold flavors.

Simmer covered until tender:

Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet or pot with a lid, and let the rice cook undisturbed for 20 to 25 minutes. The rice will soak up the broth and become tender without additional stirring.

Rest and fluff:

Remove from heat but keep the lid on for another five minutes. This resting time lets the rice steam a bit more, giving a fluffy texture. Finally, fluff gently with a fork before serving to separate the grains.

My favorite ingredient is the Cajun seasoning itself. I remember making this dish for friends who were new to Cajun flavors and they were surprised by how approachable and tasty the spice mix is without being overwhelming.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth and warm gently on the stove to restore moisture and fluffiness. You can also freeze the rice for up to three months. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly in a skillet for best texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not like green bell peppers, try using red or yellow peppers which add a sweeter flavor and vibrant color. Use sweet yellow onion if you prefer a milder onion flavor or do not have red onions on hand. Brown rice can replace white rice but expect longer cooking times and more broth; use about four cups broth and cook for around 40 to 45 minutes until tender.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Cajun Rice with grilled chicken, blackened fish, or sautéed shrimp. It also works great alongside a fresh leafy salad for a lighter meal. For a fun twist, scoop the rice into hollowed out bell peppers and bake for a filling stuffed pepper dish.

This Cajun Rice is an easy, flavorful side that adapts well to proteins and vegetables. Adjust the seasoning to suit your spice preference.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Is this Cajun spiced rice spicy?

The spice level is mild to moderate, but adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning lets you control the heat easily.

→ Can I add proteins to this rice?

Yes, cooked sausage, shrimp, or chicken can be stirred in at the end to enhance the dish's heartiness.

→ Should I rinse the rice before cooking?

Rinsing is optional. The rice achieves perfect texture without rinsing, but you may follow your usual preference.

→ Can this dish be made spicier?

For more heat, add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to customize the flavor.

→ What other vegetables work well here?

Celery, tomatoes, or corn can be added to bulk up the dish and introduce extra layers of flavor.

→ Can brown rice be used instead of white rice?

Brown rice can be substituted but requires more broth and a longer cooking time for optimal texture.

→ Is cooking in a rice cooker possible?

Yes, sauté the vegetables first, then combine with rice, seasoning, and broth in the rice cooker using white rice settings.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months; reheat gently in a skillet.