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Dirty Rice Popeyes Cajun Rice
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Dirty Rice (Popeyes Cajun Rice)

This Dirty Rice recipe replicates the bold, smoky flavors of Popeyes Cajun rice using simple ingredients. It is a versatile, hearty dish perfect as a side or main course with authentic Cajun spices and savory meat.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Keyword: Comfort Food, Easy, Quick, Spicy
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
  • 0.5 pound ground beef choose lean
  • 0.5 pound ground chicken liver optional for authenticity; can substitute with extra ground beef
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 unit green bell pepper finely chopped
  • 2 stalks celery finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust as needed
  • 2 units green onions sliced (for garnish)
  • fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  • Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent gummy texture.
  • In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.
  • Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
  • While the rice cooks, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and chicken liver (if using) and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Remove any excess fat from the pan.
  • Add chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery to the skillet. Cook until vegetables soften, about 4-5 minutes.
  • Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  • Sprinkle smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and salt over the mixture. Stir well and let spices toast for 1-2 minutes to release flavors.
  • Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir thoroughly to combine evenly.
  • Allow rice to cook with the meat and spices for another 3-4 minutes to meld flavors.
  • Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot as a side or main dish.

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Large Skillet
  • Spoon

Notes

For authentic flavor, include ground chicken liver or substitute with extra ground beef or mushrooms. Adjust cayenne pepper to control heat. Use chicken broth for cooking rice for extra flavor. Leftovers taste better the next day. Variations include vegetarian options with mushrooms or TVP, spicy additions like jalapeños, smoky undertones with liquid smoke, or extra veggies. Brown rice can be used with adjusted cooking time.