Hearty chicken, vibrant vegetables, and Cajun spices combine in a comforting casserole baked to perfection.
# Components:
→ Poultry
01 - 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
→ Aromatics & Vegetables
03 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 green bell pepper, diced
06 - 2 celery stalks, diced
07 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
→ Staples & Liquids
08 - 1.5 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
09 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
→ Seasonings
10 - 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
11 - 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
13 - 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
14 - 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
→ Optional Toppings & Garnish
15 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
16 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
# Directions:
01 - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
02 - In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until lightly browned. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
03 - Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared casserole dish.
04 - In the same skillet, add the diced onion, bell peppers, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
05 - Add the sautéed vegetables to the casserole dish with the chicken. Incorporate the rinsed rice, chicken broth, remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, dried thyme, black pepper, and kosher salt. Stir gently until all ingredients are well combined.
06 - Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
07 - Remove the aluminum foil. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the rice is tender.
08 - Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Just before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
