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A close-up shot of a serving of Creole Dirty Rice on a white plate, placed on the white marble cooktop. A crispy Southern Fried Chicken drumstick rests beside it, garnished with fresh herbs, ready to be enjoyed.

Popeyes Cajun Rice Recipe

This homemade Popeyes Cajun Rice is packed with bold Creole flavors, tender beef, and aromatic spices. A rich, smoky one-pot dish that’s hearty, comforting, and just like the restaurant favorite!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine cajun, southern
Servings 8
Calories 298 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet or pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Saucepan (for broth)

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups long grain rice
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 pound ground beef 85/15
  • 1/2 cup chicken gizzards minced
  • 1/2 green bell pepper minced
  • 1/2 yellow onion minced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
  • 1 teaspoon creole seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions
 

  • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef and minced chicken gizzards until fully cooked.
    A close-up shot of a black skillet on a white marble cooktop, where ground beef and minced chicken gizzards sizzle in hot vegetable oil. A spatula breaks apart the meat as it browns, releasing a rich, savory aroma.
  • Add the onions, bell pepper, and seasonings (garlic powder, celery seed, Creole seasoning, cayenne, black pepper) and sauté until softened.
    A close-up shot of the black skillet on the white marble cooktop, as minced onions, green bell peppers, and a blend of seasonings are added to the browned meat. The mixture sizzles, and aromatic steam rises, enhancing the flavors.
  • Stir in the long-grain rice and toast for 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavor.
    A close-up shot of the black skillet on the white marble cooktop, as uncooked long-grain rice is stirred into the meat and vegetable mixture. The grains begin to toast, turning a light golden brown, absorbing the rich flavors.
  • Pour in the beef broth and water, stir well, and bring to a boil.
    A close-up shot of a measuring cup pouring beef broth and water into the black skillet on the white marble cooktop. The liquid bubbles as it mixes with the seasoned rice and meat, preparing for slow absorption.
  • Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender.
    A close-up shot of the black skillet on the white marble cooktop, now covered with a lid as the rice simmers. Wisps of steam escape from the edges, indicating the slow cooking process that enhances the dish’s texture.
  • Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
    A close-up shot of the black skillet on the white marble cooktop, as the lid is lifted to reveal perfectly cooked dirty rice. The grains are tender, infused with spices, and the broth has been fully absorbed.
  • Fluff with a fork, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
    A close-up shot of a fork fluffing the dirty rice inside the black skillet on the white marble cooktop. The grains separate beautifully, with bits of seasoned meat and vegetables evenly distributed.
  • Serve hot with Crispy Southern Fried Chicken or Mashed Potato Puffs for a perfect meal!
    A close-up shot of a serving of Creole Dirty Rice on a white plate, placed on the white marble cooktop. A crispy Southern Fried Chicken drumstick rests beside it, garnished with fresh herbs, ready to be enjoyed.