Crispy Cajun Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
Introduction
This Crispy Cajun Chicken Rice Bowl combines flavorful, spicy chicken with comforting white rice and a creamy, tangy drizzle. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Optional: lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, and olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
- Step 3: Once the skillet is hot, add chicken in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until crispy and fully cooked. Let rest, then slice.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise and sriracha or hot sauce to make the spicy mayo drizzle.
- Step 5: If needed, reheat cooked rice and divide it between serving bowls.
- Step 6: Top rice with sliced chicken, drizzle with spicy mayo, and sprinkle with green onions.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, pat chicken dry before seasoning and use a cast-iron skillet if available.
- Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Swap sriracha for your favorite hot sauce to customize the spice level.
- Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or corn for more color and nutrition.
Storage
Store leftover chicken and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. The spicy mayo drizzle is best added fresh before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of raw chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken, but it won’t have the same crispy texture. If using pre-cooked chicken, warm it through and season to taste before adding to the rice bowl.
Is this recipe spicy?
The heat level depends on the amount of sriracha or hot sauce used in the spicy mayo. You can adjust or omit the hot sauce for a milder dish.
Print
Crispy Cajun Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Crispy Cajun Chicken Rice Bowl features tender, flavorful chicken thighs seasoned with bold Cajun spices and cooked to a perfect crisp on the stovetop. Served over fluffy white rice and topped with a creamy, spicy mayo drizzle and fresh green onions, it’s a quick and satisfying meal packed with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Rice
- 2 cups cooked white rice
Spicy Mayo Drizzle
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce
Garnishes
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Optional: lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Skillet: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking and aid in cooking.
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the boneless skinless chicken thighs with Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss everything together to coat the chicken evenly with the spices and oil.
- Cook the Chicken: When the skillet is hot, place the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer. Cook them for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they develop a crispy crust and are cooked through. Once done, remove from heat and let the chicken rest briefly before slicing it into strips.
- Make the Spicy Mayo Drizzle: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and sriracha (or your preferred hot sauce) until well combined, creating a creamy and spicy sauce.
- Assemble the Bowls: If necessary, reheat the cooked rice and divide it evenly among serving bowls. Top the rice with the sliced Cajun chicken.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle the spicy mayo over the chicken and rice. Sprinkle sliced green onions on top and serve with optional lime wedges for a bright, fresh contrast.
Notes
- Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat compared to chicken breasts.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a milder hot sauce in the mayo drizzle.
- Cook the chicken in a single layer to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- Leftover cooked rice works great for this recipe, making it quick to prepare.
- For a low-carb option, substitute rice with cauliflower rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Keywords: Cajun chicken, chicken rice bowl, spicy mayo, quick dinner, skillet chicken
