One-pan Cajun magic in 30 minutes!
This Cajun sausage and chicken one-pan dinner is a game-changer for busy weeknights. With smoky Andouille sausage, juicy chicken, and zesty spices, it’s ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Perfect for families craving bold flavors, this dish balances heat from cayenne and paprika with the richness of sausage and tender chicken. Serve it with cornbread or a green salad for a complete meal.
The one-pan cooking method ensures everything stays moist and flavorful, while the Cajun spice blend adds authentic Louisiana flair. No need for multiple pots or pans—just a single skillet and 30 minutes of your time.
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or need a quick family meal, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home. The smoky sausage and caramelized peppers create a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.
With its vibrant colors and aromatic spices, this Cajun dinner is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The combination of golden rice, red and orange bell peppers, and herbed sausage makes it a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Why This Recipe Works
Lightning-Fast Cooking
Ready in 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights. All ingredients cook together in a single skillet, saving time and effort.
Bold, Authentic Flavors
The Cajun spice blend of paprika, cayenne, and thyme delivers smoky heat and depth, while Andouille sausage adds a rich, smoky base.
Serves the Whole Family
With juicy chicken, tender rice, and colorful peppers, this dish offers a balanced mix of proteins, carbs, and veggies that everyone will love.
Minimal Cleanup
One-pan cooking means no multiple pots to clean. Just transfer the finished dish to plates and enjoy!
Cajun Sausage & Chicken One-Pan Dinner
30-Minute Bold Flavor
Ingredients
- - 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
- - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- - 1 cup uncooked white rice
- - 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- - 1 orange bell pepper, sliced
- - 1 onion, sliced
- - 2 cloves garlic, minced
- - 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- - 1 tsp paprika
- - 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- - 1/2 tsp thyme
- - 1/2 tsp salt
- - 1/4 tsp black pepper
- - 2 cups chicken broth
- - 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Prep Ingredients: Slice sausage, cut chicken, and chop peppers and onion.
💡 Tip: Use a sharp knife for even slices to ensure even cooking.
Cook Sausage: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned (5-7 minutes).
💡 Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
Add Chicken and Veggies: Add chicken, peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until chicken is browned (3-4 minutes).
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Add Spices and Rice: Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add rice and broth. Bring to a boil.
💡 Tip: Adjust spice level by adding more cayenne if desired.
Simmer and Serve: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
💡 Tip: Check rice for doneness; adjust simmer time if needed.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Andouille Sausage
Provides smoky heat and depth. Substitute with smoked sausage or kielbasa for a different flavor profile.
Substitutions: Smoked sausage, Italian sausage, or chicken sausage.
Cajun Seasoning
Essential for authentic flavor. Look for store-bought blends or make your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme.
Substitutions: Homemade Cajun spice mix or Old Bay seasoning.
Rice
White rice is ideal for quick absorption. Brown rice requires more liquid and longer cooking time.
Substitutions: Quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Bell Peppers
Add color and sweetness. Use green peppers for a more tart flavor or cherry tomatoes for a burst of acidity.
Substitutions: Green peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cajun Sausage & Chicken
Spice Level Control
Adjust cayenne pepper to your heat preference. Start with 1/4 tsp and add more gradually.
One-Pan Magic
Use a 12-inch skillet to ensure ingredients have enough space for even cooking and browning.
Flavor Boost
Add a splash of hot sauce or a dollop of Dijon mustard to the rice mixture for extra zing.
Time Saver
Prep all ingredients before starting. The recipe moves quickly once cooking begins.
Variations & Customizations
Vegetarian Version
Omit sausage and chicken, add extra peppers, mushrooms, and chickpeas. Use vegetable broth and double the Cajun seasoning.
Seafood Twist
Replace chicken with shrimp or crawfish. Add a splash of lemon juice and Old Bay seasoning for coastal flair.
Low-Carb Option
Substitute rice with cauliflower rice and use coconut oil for cooking. Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
Protein Swap
Use steak strips, pork chops, or tofu instead of chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Crusty Cornbread: The buttery, slightly sweet cornbread balances the spicy dish.
- Collard Greens: Braised with garlic and vinegar for a Southern side.
- Coleslaw: A creamy, tangy slaw with cabbage and carrots.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a bold red like Zinfandel to complement the spices. For non-alcoholic options, try sweet tea or a citrus soda.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prep ingredients up to 24 hours in advance. Store in airtight containers in the fridge. Cook the day of serving for best texture.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Freezer Storage
Freeze individual portions in ziplock bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. For a crispier texture, use a skillet instead of the microwave.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but thaw it completely first to ensure even cooking. Add an extra 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
Q: How do I fix undercooked rice?
A: Add 1/4 cup water or broth, cover, and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes. Check frequently to avoid overcooking.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Use a larger skillet and increase cooking time by 5-10 minutes. Ensure ingredients are spread in a single layer for even cooking.
Q: How to store unused rice?
A: Store cooked rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to restore moisture.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun sausage and chicken one-pan dinner is a weeknight miracle. With bold flavors, minimal effort, and a single skillet, it’s a recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen. The smoky heat of the Andouille sausage and the zesty Cajun spices create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this meal delivers restaurant-quality results in 30 minutes. Pair it with crusty cornbread and a crisp salad, and you’ll have a complete Louisiana-inspired feast that everyone will love. Don’t forget to save this pin for your next busy night!
