Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken and Rice

In the fast-paced world we live in, slow cooker meals have become a cherished staple for many families. They offer the perfect blend of convenience and flavor, allowing busy home cooks to prepare hearty dishes without spending hours in the kitchen. One such delightful recipe is Spicy Cajun Comfort: Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice. This dish captures the essence of comfort food while infusing it with the bold and vibrant flavors characteristic of Cajun cuisine.

Transform your weeknight dinners with a taste of Cajun flair! This Spicy Cajun Comfort: Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice is the ultimate family meal, packed with bold flavors and easy to prepare. Just set up your slow cooker in the morning, and return home to the inviting aroma of seasoned chicken, rice, and vegetables, simmering to perfection. Perfectly tender and bursting with spices, this dish will not only satisfy your hunger but also warm your soul. Create a delicious and comforting experience for your loved ones with this simple yet flavorful recipe!

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Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 medium onion, diced

1 green bell pepper, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

2 stalks celery, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and brown the chicken on both sides (about 3-4 minutes per side). Transfer the browned chicken to the slow cooker.

Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion, green and red bell peppers, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables start to soften (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Add the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker along with the diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

Add Rice: Gently stir in the uncooked rice, making sure it's evenly distributed throughout the other ingredients.

Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Shred Chicken: Once cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Final Touches: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning if desired.

Serve: Scoop the Cajun chicken and rice mixture into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and sliced green onions, if using.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 6 hrs | 6 servings