One-pan Garlic Cajun Chicken Scampi
One-pan Garlic Cajun Chicken Scampi is a mouthwatering dish that offers a perfect blend of savory and zesty flavors in every bite. This recipe features tender chicken sautéed with aromatic garlic, complemented by the warmth of Cajun spices and the brightness of fresh lemon. The creamy sauce envelops fluffy rice, making it a comforting meal ideal for weeknights or special gatherings. With minimal cleanup thanks to its one-pan preparation, this dish not only delights the taste buds but also simplifies your cooking experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- Salt and black pepper
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes until golden brown; set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and sauté minced garlic for about a minute.
- Add uncooked rice, stirring to coat with garlic butter for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream, lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning; simmer for another few minutes.
- Return cooked chicken to the pan; mix well and heat through before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg