Smothered Cajun Chicken Ranch Rice (Print-Friendly Version)

Cajun-style chicken cooks in creamy sauce, served with rich ranch-seasoned rice topped with cheddar and fresh parsley.

# Ingredients:

→ For the Cajun Chicken

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
02 - 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
05 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
07 - 1/2 cup chicken broth
08 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
09 - 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
10 - Salt and pepper to taste
11 - Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

→ For the Creamy Ranch Rice

12 - 1 cup long-grain white rice
13 - 2 cups chicken broth
14 - 1 tablespoon dry ranch seasoning mix
15 - 2 tablespoons cream cheese
16 - 1/4 cup sour cream
17 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
18 - 1 tablespoon butter

# Steps:

01 - Season chicken thighs with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs on both sides until browned, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until smooth.
04 - Return chicken to the skillet and simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens.
05 - Cook rice in chicken broth until tender, about 15–18 minutes. Stir in ranch seasoning, cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, and butter. Mix until creamy.
06 - Serve smothered Cajun chicken over creamy ranch rice and garnish with chopped parsley.