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Copycat Popeye’s Cajun Rice

Savory Copycat Popeye’s Cajun Rice Everyone Will Love

Delight in the flavors of Copycat Popeye’s Cajun Rice, a customizable dish perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice Substitute with jasmine rice for a similar effect.
  • 2 cups chicken broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
For the Meat
  • 1 pound ground beef Substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option or omit for vegetarian.
  • 1 pound ground chicken Use only beef or turkey if preferred.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium onion Yellow or white onion works best.
  • 1 medium green bell pepper Red bell pepper can be used for a sweeter note.
  • 2 stalks celery Essential to Cajun “holy trinity” flavor profile.
  • 3 cloves garlic Fresh is best; omit if using pre-minced.
For Flavoring
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste Not necessary but enhances color and flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Choose one with paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional for added heat.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor; adjust for personal preference.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions Optional garnish for freshness and color.

Equipment

  • Medium pot
  • large skillet
  • Spatula

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Begin by pouring chicken broth into a medium pot and bringing it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the long-grain white rice, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
  2. While the rice is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of vegetable oil. Add the ground beef and ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring until fully browned.
  3. Stir in finely chopped onion, diced green bell pepper, and diced celery into the skillet with the browned meat. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
  4. Mix in tomato paste along with Cajun seasoning, black pepper, and cayenne. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated with the spices and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the seasoned meat and vegetables. Stir for about 2-3 minutes until well mixed.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then transfer to a serving dish, garnishing with chopped green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. Add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to keep rice moist.

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