Dinner

Cajun Rice Recipe

Name: Cajun Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and diced; 1/2 green bell pepper, seeded and diced; 1/2 yellow onion, diced; 1/3 cup unsalted butter; 3 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground thyme; 1 teaspoon ground paprika; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 bay leaf; 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice

ByCharlotte Montgomery October 28, 2025October 28, 2025

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Introduction

Cajun Rice is a flavorful and colorful side dish perfect for adding a spicy twist to your meal. With sautéed bell peppers and aromatic spices, this rice dish is easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with a variety of proteins.

A large white bowl filled with cooked rice mixed with small pieces of red bell pepper, giving the rice a light orange color with scattered bright red bits throughout. The texture of the rice looks soft and fluffy, with each grain separate but slightly moist. Surrounding the bowl are a whole onion, a green bell pepper, and part of a red bell pepper, all resting on a white marbled surface. A wooden spoon is visible at the edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/3 cup unsalted butter
1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
1/2 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
1/2 yellow onion, diced
3 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 1/4 teaspoons Kosher salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground thyme
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 bay leaf
1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice

Instructions

Step 1: Add the butter to a medium-sized saucepan over medium-high heat. Melt the butter carefully without burning it. Once melted, add the diced bell peppers and onion, stirring to coat them. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Step 2: Pour in the chicken broth and add the salt, garlic powder, thyme, paprika, black pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Stir in the rice, then cover the saucepan with a lid. Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Let the rice simmer for 20-25 minutes, until it is tender and cooked through. Remove from heat and keep covered, allowing it to rest for 10 minutes.
Step 5: After resting, remove the bay leaf, fluff the rice with a fork, then serve and enjoy your flavorful Cajun Rice.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño along with the bell peppers.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Try adding cooked sausage or shrimp on top to make it a hearty main dish.

Storage

Store leftover Cajun Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with cooked rice mixed with small pieces of red and green bell peppers and light brown seasonings, creating a colorful and textured look with well-separated grains. The rice is piled high, showing a fluffy texture with a slight shine from the spices and oil. In the background, there is a soft focus of green leafy vegetables and other white objects, all on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth to about 4 cups and simmer for 40-45 minutes until tender.

Is this dish spicy?

This Cajun Rice has mild spice from the paprika and black pepper. You can increase the heat by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier flavor.