Name: One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice for Busy Weeknights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (for extra moisture); 12 ounces Andouille sausage (pre-cooked for quick preparation); 1 cup rice (can substitute with farro, bulgur, or couscous); 2 cups chicken broth (vegetable broth is a gluten-free alternative); 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (homemade blend recommended); 1 cup bell peppers (chopped); 1 cup onions (chopped)

As I stirred the vibrant mix of spices and rice, the aroma of my One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice transported me straight to the lively streets of New Orleans. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of bold Cajun flavors, combining juicy chicken and smoky sausage into a hearty masterpiece—all made in one pan! With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something exciting yet comforting. Not to mention, it’s gluten-free, making it great for everyone at the table! Are you ready to embark on a flavorful journey that will instantly spice up your dinner routine?

Why is One-Pan Cooking a Game Changer?

Ease of Preparation: With just one pan, this dish minimizes clean-up and maximizes flavor.

Vibrant Cajun Flavors: Experience the zing of Cajun spices, bringing a taste of Louisiana right into your kitchen.

Customizable: Easily swap chicken for shrimp or add seasonal veggies like zucchinis for a fresh twist!

Perfect for Busy Nights: Get dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, making weeknight cooking a breeze.

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: The combination of juicy chicken, smoky sausage, and tender rice will satisfy everyone, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry! For extra ideas, check out my Bbq Chicken Rice for more one-pan goodness!

One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice Ingredients

For the Protein

• Chicken – Provides protein and heartiness; consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra moisture.
• Sausage (e.g., Andouille) – Adds a smoky depth to the dish; pre-cooked sausage can be used for quick preparation.

For the Base

• Rice – Acts as the hearty base of the meal; can substitute with farro, bulgur, or couscous—just adjust cooking times.
• Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and flavor; vegetable broth is a great gluten-free alternative.

For the Flavor

• Cajun Seasoning – Infuses the dish with robust, spicy flavors; a homemade blend can bring freshness and zest.

For the Veggies

• Vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, onions) – Enhance flavor and texture; feel free to add fresh seasonal veggies for variety.

This flavorful dish showcases the essence of Cajun cuisine and is sure to delight your family!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice

Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil and once hot, place the chicken pieces in the pan. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should be no longer pink in the center. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In the same skillet, without wiping it clean, add the sliced sausage. Let it sizzle and brown for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through and lightly crisped. This will infuse the pan with smoky flavors, perfect for your One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the chopped onions and bell peppers into the skillet with the sausage. Sauté these vibrant veggies for about 4-5 minutes, until they start to soften and become fragrant. Keep an eye on them, stirring occasionally, and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 4: Add Rice and Seasoning
Stir in the rice and your homemade or store-bought Cajun seasoning, making sure everything is well combined. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes to toast the rice and allow it to soak up the flavors. The spices will add a beautiful color to your One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once you see it bubbling, return the browned chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and let it cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve
After the cooking time, remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, perhaps adding a little more Cajun spice or salt. Serve your One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice warm, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for that extra zest.

What to Serve with One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice

Elevate your dinner spread with delightful sides that will complement the bold flavors of your main dish beautifully.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes adds a comforting contrast to the spicy Cajun chicken and sausage.
Fresh Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette adds a crisp, refreshing note, balancing the dish’s heartiness and spiciness.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread not only soaks up the savory broth but also provides a satisfying crunch to every bite.
Cornbread Muffins: The slightly sweet cornbread contrasts well with the bold spices, making for a delightful pairing that captures Southern comfort.
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies bring sweetness and texture to the table, creating a beautiful and wholesome meal.
Iced Tea: A glass of refreshing iced tea, sweetened or unsweetened, complements the spice, making every bite more enjoyable.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet serves as a refreshing palate cleanser, softening the spicy heat of the main dish.

By choosing a few of these options, you'll create a well-rounded meal that will surely please everyone at the table!

Expert Tips for One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice

Don’t Rush Chicken: Ensure the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, but avoid overcooking to keep it juicy for your One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice.
Spice Adjustments: Taste before serving; you can always add more Cajun seasoning or fresh cayenne for extra heat, catering to everyone’s palate.
Cover While Cooking: Keeping the skillet covered helps steam the rice evenly and enhances the flavors, preventing a dry texture.
Veggie Variety: Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or frozen peas—this adds freshness and nutrition without complicating your one-pan meal.
Meal Prep Ready: This dish can be prepared in advance and chilled; just reheat for a quick, satisfying dinner during hectic weeknights.

Storage Tips for One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld even more while keeping your One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice fresh.

Freezer: Portion out cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave a little space at the top for expansion.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth, stirring gently until warmed through. This prevents the rice from drying out and keeps the dish hearty.

Make-Ahead: Prepare this dish ahead of time and simply reheat when you're ready to enjoy it. This makes your busy weeknight dinners easy and convenient!

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables and measure out the spices up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can brown the chicken and sausage the night before, allowing them to cool before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and sausage in the skillet, add the rice and broth, and follow the remaining cooking steps. This approach ensures your meal stays just as delicious, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights!

One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice Variations

Feel free to get creative with your One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice, exploring exciting flavors and textures that suit your taste.

Shrimp Swap: Replace the chicken with shrimp for a delightful seafood twist. Cooking time may be shorter, just until shrimp is pink and cooked through!
Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken and sausage for plant-based alternatives like smoked tempeh or vegan sausage. This variation packs the same flavor punch without the meat.
Spice it Up: Love heat? Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick that’ll tantalize your taste buds.
Seasonal Veggies: Mix in fresh vegetables like zucchini or asparagus during the sautéing step for a lively, nutrient-packed dish that varies with the seasons.
Cajun Flavor Boost: For an intense flavor kick, try adding diced smoked paprika or a few teaspoons of Cajun spice mix during the cooking process. It enhances the dish beautifully!
Rice Alternatives: Instead of traditional rice, experiment with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a nutty taste that's gluten-free and low-carb.
Creamy Texture: For a comforting twist, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a rich, creamy version of this dish.
Mix and Match: Pair with cornbread or a green salad for a well-rounded meal. Check out my link for a tasty Bbq Chicken Rice which complements these flavors perfectly!

One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They provide more flavor and moisture than chicken breasts, ensuring your One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice stays juicy and delicious. If you prefer chicken breasts, just be sure to not overcook them, as they can dry out quickly.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! After enjoying your One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice, place any leftovers into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to mingle and develop, making for an incredible next-day meal!

Can I freeze this dish? If yes, how?
Of course! To freeze your One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice, let it cool completely, then divide it into portions and place them in freezer-safe containers. Be sure to leave a little space at the top for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

What can I do if the rice is too hard after cooking?
No worries! If the rice turns out too hard or undercooked, simply add a bit more chicken broth or water to the skillet and cover it again. Let it simmer on low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes. This should help the rice absorb the liquid and soften up, providing a perfect texture for your One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice.

Are there any dietary considerations I should know?
Absolutely! If you're cooking for someone with gluten sensitivity, make sure all ingredients—including your sausage and Cajun seasoning—are gluten-free. You can easily make a homemade Cajun seasoning blend using spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper to cater to dietary needs.

Can I customize the vegetables I use?
Very! The beauty of this One-Pan Cajun Chicken Sausage & Rice is its versatility. Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or peas based on your preference and availability. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and sauté them with the onions and bell peppers for a healthy twist!