Can I use halal turkey sausage instead of halal smoked sausage?

Yes. For this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet, halal turkey sausage works well. It’s leaner and milder, so you might need a touch more Cajun seasoning to keep bold flavor. Texture will be a bit lighter, but the cooking time stays similar. If you like a stronger bite, add a pinch more smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce at the end

Is this dish gluten-free?

Mostly, yes. Use gluten-free Cajun seasoning and halal broth. Some spice blends hide gluten, so read labels. Cross-contamination can happen; use dedicated utensils and clean surfaces. If you’re unsure, choose certified gluten-free products and you’re good to go.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, but rice texture may differ. I prefer finishing on the stove. Brown the sausage and vegetables on the stovetop, then combine with rinsed rice and broth in the slow cooker. Cook on low 4–6 hours. Finish by fluffing and tasting on the stovetop, adding salt if needed.

How spicy is this recipe?

The heat comes from Cajun seasoning and paprika. I use 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning as a baseline. To control heat, start with less and taste. Add more Cajun seasoning or hot sauce in small increments until it’s right for your crowd. For kids, go milder and offer hot sauce on the side.

Can I substitute brown rice?

Yes, but plan for more liquid and time. For 1 cup brown rice, use about 2 1/2 to 3 cups broth. Simmer 40–45 minutes, then let it rest 5 minutes off heat. The texture will be nuttier and chewier, but delicious with the same spices.

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet: 5 Quick Easy Savory Dinner.

Name: Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet: 5 Quick Easy Savory Dinner.
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 12 oz halal smoked sausage, sliced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste); ½ tsp smoked paprika; 2¼ cups chicken broth (halal-certified); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Description

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet: Smoky, spicy, and ready in a flash—a one-pan dinner that delivers bold Cajun flavor with sausage, rice, and peppers.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tbsp olive oil
12 oz halal smoked sausage, sliced
1 small onion, diced
1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
½ tsp smoked paprika
2¼ cups chicken broth (halal-certified)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned.
Add onion and bell pepper. Sauté for another 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add rice and stir to coat in the spices and sausage juices.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Fluff with a fork, season with salt and pepper if needed, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Tip: You can substitute with turkey or chicken sausage if desired.
For more heat, add extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
Ensure Cajun seasoning is gluten-free if needed for dietary restrictions.
Halal-certified ingredients are used; verify all components for dietary compliance.
Let the skillet rest for a couple of minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner, One-Pan meal
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (1/4 of recipe)
Calories: Approximately 510 kcal
Sugar: Approximately 3 g
Sodium: Approximately 750 mg
Fat: Approximately 27 g
Saturated Fat: Approximately 11 g
Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 16 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 40 g
Fiber: Approximately 3 g
Protein: Approximately 23 g
Cholesterol: Approximately 90 mg

Keywords: Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet, Cajun rice skillet, one-pan Cajun dinner, halal sausage recipe, easy weeknight dinner, smoky sausage and rice