Description
This Cajun Cream Chicken with Rice is a bold, comforting dinner that pairs juicy, pan-seared chicken with a rich, cheesy cream sauce spiced with Cajun seasoning and Rotel tomatoes. Served over fluffy rice and finished with fresh lime and cilantro, it’s a Southern-inspired one-skillet dish packed with flavor and perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
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1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
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3 tbsp all-purpose flour
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1-2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
For the Sauce:
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1 1/2 cups chicken broth
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3/4 cup heavy cream (or half and half)
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1 tbsp honey
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2 tsp hot sauce
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2 tsp Cajun seasoning
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1 tsp brown sugar
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1/2 tsp mustard powder
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1/2 tsp dried oregano
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Pinch of cayenne pepper
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Pinch of red pepper flakes
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3 tbsp butter
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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3 tbsp all-purpose flour
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10 oz Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (juice reserved)
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3/4 cup cheddar jack cheese, shredded
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2 tsp fresh lime juice
For Serving:
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Cooked white rice
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Fresh lime wedges
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Fresh chopped cilantro
Instructions
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Prep the Chicken:
Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to make 4 thin cutlets. Pound to ½-inch thickness.
Season both sides with Cajun seasoning and dust lightly with flour. -
Sear the Chicken:
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside. -
Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the reserved tomato juice and scrape up any browned bits with a spatula. -
Start the Sauce:
Add butter and garlic. Cook for 1 minute. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes to form a roux. -
Simmer the Sauce:
Gradually whisk in chicken broth, cream, honey, hot sauce, Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, mustard powder, oregano, cayenne, and red pepper flakes.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer. Stir in drained Rotel tomatoes. Simmer for 5–7 minutes. -
Add Cheese & Finish:
Stir in cheese gradually until fully melted and smooth. Add lime juice.
Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer uncovered for 4–5 minutes. -
Serve:
Plate chicken with white rice. Garnish with lime wedges and chopped cilantro. Serve hot.
Notes
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Adjust spice level by using more or less hot sauce and cayenne.
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Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variation.
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Great with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing / Skillet
- Cuisine: Southern