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Hi! I’m Kate, the face behind KateFi.com—a blog all about making life easier and more affordable.
Skip the takeout and spice up your dinner game with this One-Pan Cajun Chicken and Rice recipe! It’s flavorful, filling, and made with pantry staples—all for under $3 a serving. Perfect for busy nights when you want something bold without breaking the bank.
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Why You’ll Love This Budget Beauty
- One pan = less mess
- Spicy, smoky, and packed with flavor
- Super affordable
- Great for meal prep
- Ready in under 30 minutes
Budget-Friendly Ingredients
| Ingredient | Cost (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Thighs (2) | $1.60 | Boneless, skinless |
| Rice (1 cup) | $0.25 | White or brown |
| Onion (1/2 medium) | $0.20 | Dice it up |
| Bell Pepper (1) | $0.50 | Any color works |
| Cajun Seasoning | $0.10 | Homemade or store-bought |
| Garlic (2 cloves) | $0.10 | Minced |
| Chicken Broth (1.5 c) | $0.40 | Use bouillon for even cheaper |
| Olive Oil (1 tbsp) | $0.10 | Or any cooking oil |
Total Estimated Cost:
$3.25 for 2 servings ($1.63 per serving)
How to Cook It
1. Season the chicken: Rub the chicken thighs with Cajun seasoning and a little olive oil. Let it marinate for 5-10 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.
2. Sear the chicken: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the veggies: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes).
4. Add rice & broth: Stir in the rice and toast it for 1 minute. Then pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Finish cooking: Nestle the seared chicken back into the pan. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 18–20 minutes, until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
6. Let it rest: Turn off heat and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
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Tips for Extra Yum
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne if you love it spicy.
- Squeeze fresh lemon over the top for a flavor boost.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onion for a pop of color.
More Budget Bangers You’ll Love
- Creamy Garlic Ramen for Less Than $2
- Savory Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta That Tastes Gourmet on a Budget
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Final Bite
This Cajun Chicken and Rice dish is proof that you don’t need to spend big to eat big. It’s smoky, savory, and so easy to throw together in one pan. Whether you’re cooking for one or meal-prepping for the week, this dish delivers big-time flavor with small-time effort.
Tag your skillet crew or share this with someone who needs a new budget-friendly go-to!
