Name: Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced); 1½ tablespoons olive oil; Cajun seasoning, to taste; Onion powder, to taste; Garlic powder, to taste; Paprika, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 4 tablespoons butter; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1½ cups heavy whipping cream; Cooked white rice (enough for 4 servings)

If you’ve been dreaming of a dinner that delivers big flavor with just a little effort, you’re in for a treat. Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice is comfort food at its finest, with juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken, a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, and tender grains that soak up every bit of goodness. You’ll want to Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates to make every serving feel special – that’s the secret to this craveable, restaurant-worthy dish.

Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how everyday ingredients join forces to create a bold, creamy masterpiece! Each one brings something vital: the richness of the cream, the brightness of the Parmesan, and, of course, those Cajun spices that make this dish sing.

Chicken breasts: Thinly sliced for quicker cooking and a gorgeous sear in every bite.
Olive oil: Adds a touch of richness for searing the chicken and enhancing flavor.
Cajun seasoning: The heart of the dish—use as much or as little as you like for the perfect kick.
Onion powder: Subtle depth that rounds out the flavor profile beautifully.
Garlic powder: Essential for warmth and that classic home-cooked savoriness.
Paprika: Lends lovely color and a sweet-smoky note.
Black pepper: A pinch wakes up all the other spices for a balanced bite.
Butter: Creates silky, melt-in-your-mouth richness in the sauce.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Gives the sauce its nutty, irresistible creaminess.
Heavy whipping cream: The backbone of that dreamy, velvety sauce.
Cooked white rice: Enough for 4 servings, fluffy and hot, ready to soak up every drop.

How to Make Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by preparing your white rice just as the package suggests, whether using your trusty rice cooker or the stovetop. When it’s done, set it aside and keep it warm—because the moment you Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates, you’ll be so glad you did!

Step 2: Season & Sear the Chicken

Slice those chicken breasts thin, so they cook quickly and absorb all your seasonings. Sprinkle both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high, then lay in the chicken. Let it sizzle and brown for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until gorgeously golden and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F). Move the chicken to a plate and let it rest—you want those juices to stay put!

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Carefully wipe away any extra oil so your sauce stays creamy, not greasy. Melt the butter right in the skillet, swirling it as it bubbles. Pour in the heavy cream, followed by a pinch each of Cajun seasoning, paprika, and pepper. Lower the heat, then slowly stir in the Parmesan cheese, watching it melt into a smooth, heavenly sauce. Let everything simmer gently for a minute to thicken just enough—it should coat the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates

Give your rice a gentle fluff, using a fork for perfect, separate grains. Now comes the moment: Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates. Slice the rested chicken into strips and arrange on top of each serving. Spoon that velvety Cajun-Parmesan sauce over the chicken, letting just a bit slip onto the rice (don’t mix it all in—the contrast is key!).

Step 5: Serve Immediately

This dish is at its best hot and fresh. Gather everyone around, and watch as the creamy sauce melts over the spicy chicken and fluffy rice. Dig in right away for the ultimate Cajun comfort food experience!

How to Serve Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds just the right spark of color and freshness to your plate. You can also grate a little extra Parmesan on top for even more savory depth when you Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates!

Side Dishes

Serve this creamy Cajun chicken and rice alongside a crisp green salad with a zippy vinaigrette, or some simple steamed green beans for contrast. Garlic bread or warm rolls make perfect partners too, helping you scoop up every last drop of that sauce after you Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, try molding the rice into neat rounds using a cup and placing it in the center of the plate before topping with chicken and sauce. Or use a shallow bowl for a casual, cozy feel—just don’t forget to Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates for that irresistible presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extras, let the chicken, sauce, and rice cool completely, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This will help preserve texture and prevent the rice from absorbing too much sauce before you’re ready to Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates again.

Freezing

While the creamy sauce may lose a little of its silky texture in the freezer, you can freeze the cooked chicken and rice for up to 3 months. For best results, make the sauce fresh when reheating and always Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates after thawing!

Reheating

Warm the chicken and rice gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture. Heat the sauce separately until just hot, stirring continuously. Finally, Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates, topping with chicken and plenty of that luscious sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are wonderfully juicy and flavorful, and they work just as well. Season and cook them just like the breasts, then Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates for the perfect finish.

What can I use as a substitute for heavy cream?

You can swap in half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a slightly different flavor profile. Just note the sauce won’t be quite as thick, but it’ll still be delicious when you Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends entirely on your Cajun seasoning and personal taste. Start with a little, taste as you go, and remember you can always sprinkle a bit more after you Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates to dial up the spice.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook everything in advance and store rice, chicken, and sauce separately. When ready to serve, gently reheat and Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates, adding fresh sauce for the best texture.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the sauce?

For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter, substitute your favorite unsweetened non-dairy milk (like oat or cashew cream), and try a vegan Parmesan replacement. Your sauce will have a slightly different character, but will still be irresistible when you Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates!

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a meal that’s so simple, but feels like a celebration every time you Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates. Creamy Cajun Chicken & Rice is the cozy dinner you’ll crave again and again—easy, luxurious, and just waiting to be shared with the people you love. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and make tonight a little bit special!

Fluff the rice and divide among serving plates Recipe