Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of One-pan Garlic Cajun Chicken Scampi, an easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken with creamy rice and aromatic garlic for a satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this one-skillet recipe ensures minimal cleanup while delivering maximum taste. The zesty lemon and bold Cajun seasoning elevate this dish, making it a family favorite. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a delightful centerpiece that pairs well with salads, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat; cook chicken until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining butter over medium heat; sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes for about 1 minute.
- Add uncooked rice; stir to coat with butter for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice to deglaze the pan; bring to boil then reduce heat to low and cover for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream, lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning; simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Return cooked chicken to skillet; mix gently and heat through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added vegetables, incorporate bell peppers or spinach during cooking. Substitute chicken with turkey or shrimp for different protein options. Adjust spice levels by modifying the amount of red pepper flakes used.