Slap Ya Mama Cajun Chicken Chili Over Rice Recipe
If you love dishes that deliver a punch of bold, smoky, and spicy flavors all in one comforting bowl, then the Slap Ya Mama Cajun Chicken Chili Over Rice Recipe will quickly become your new obsession. This dish brings together tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich, vibrant chili infused with the unbeatable zest of Slap Ya Mama seasoning, a medley of hearty beans, and fresh vegetables, all served over fluffy white rice. It’s the kind of recipe that warms your soul, sparks joy in your taste buds, and feels like a big, delicious hug from the South.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating the magic behind this chili. Each element plays a crucial role, from adding depth with spices to balancing texture and color in every bite.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Perfectly tender and ideal for soaking up bold flavors without drying out.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps to sear the chicken nicely, locking in moisture and flavor.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch when softened.
- 2 bell peppers (one red, one green), chopped: Brings vibrant colors and a fresh, slightly sweet taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A punch of garlic aroma that deepens the chili’s flavor profile.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Provides a juicy, tangy base for the chili sauce.
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained: Adds heartiness and a creamy texture contrast.
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained: Offers a slightly earthy flavor and extra protein.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Used to simmer everything together and add an extra layer of savory goodness.
- 2 tbsp Slap Ya Mama Seasoning: The star seasoning that gives your chili that authentic Cajun kick.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Enhances the heat and overall chili flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp cumin: Introduces smoky, warm undertones for depth.
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika: Provides subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: The perfect fluffy base to soak up all that chili goodness.
- 2 cups chicken broth (for rice): Cooks the rice with extra flavor instead of just water.
- 1 tbsp butter: Makes the rice irresistibly rich and tender.
- Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, hot sauce, avocado slices: Fantastic toppings to customize each bowl.
How to Make Slap Ya Mama Cajun Chicken Chili Over Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First things first, pat your chicken thigh pieces dry with paper towels and generously season them with salt and pepper. This initial seasoning step is key for flavorful, caramelized chicken once seared. Dry chicken will brown better, giving your chili rich, meaty bites that make every spoonful memorable.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high. Add the chicken in a single layer so it browns evenly without steaming. Sear each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until you have a beautiful golden crust. Remove the browned chicken and set it aside. This step builds the deep flavors that elevate the dish beyond your average chili.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Next, toss the chopped onion and bell peppers into the pot. Cook them over medium heat until they soften, stirring occasionally for about 5 to 7 minutes. Add minced garlic last and cook for just another minute until fragrant. This gentle cooking unlocks the vegetables’ natural sweetness and forms a flavorful base for your chili.
Step 4: Simmer the Chili
Now pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice, along with the rinsed kidney and black beans. Stir everything together before adding the chicken broth, Slap Ya Mama Seasoning, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Mix well so the spices are evenly incorporated. This blend of pantry staples with seasoning is where the signature Cajun magic starts to happen.
Step 5: Cook the Chili
Return the seared chicken pieces to the pot and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat, cover, and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, but if you have an hour, even better! Stir it occasionally to make sure nothing sticks or burns. This slow, steady simmer tenderizes the chicken and melds all the flavors into one mouthwatering dish.
Step 6: Season to Taste
Once the chili has thickened and the chicken is tender, taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. Don’t be shy to add more Slap Ya Mama Seasoning for that extra bite or a pinch more salt and pepper to balance the heat.
Step 7: Cook the Rice
While your chili simmers, let’s take care of the rice. Combine the rice, chicken broth, butter, and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. This method spices up plain rice by infusing it with savory richness, making it the perfect partner to your spicy chili.
Step 8: Simmer the Rice
Bring the rice mixture to a boil over high heat, then turn the heat down low, cover, and let it simmer gently. Cook it for 18 to 20 minutes until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender and fluffy.
Step 9: Rest the Rice
Once done cooking, remove the rice from heat but keep it covered. Let it rest for 5 minutes — this step lets the steam finish cooking the rice so it’s perfectly fluffy instead of sticky.
Step 10: Serve
To plate, scoop a generous helping of your Slap Ya Mama Cajun Chicken Chili over a bed of that buttery, fluffy rice. Top with shredded cheddar, sour cream, green onions, avocado slices, or a dash of hot sauce to personalize each bowl. Serve it hot and watch your friends and family fall in love bite after bite.
How to Serve Slap Ya Mama Cajun Chicken Chili Over Rice Recipe

Garnishes
Adding garnishes is where your plate can really sing. Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully over the hot chili, offering creamy sharpness, while a dollop of sour cream cools the spice and adds velvety texture. Chopped green onions bring a fresh, zesty crunch, and sliced avocado lends a buttery softness that’s irresistible. Don’t forget a splash of hot sauce if you want to turn up the heat!
Side Dishes
Because the Slap Ya Mama Cajun Chicken Chili Over Rice Recipe is so hearty and flavorful, sides should complement without overwhelming. Consider a crisp garden salad with citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast or some crusty cornbread that’s perfect for soaking up every last bit of chili. Pickled vegetables add a tangy counterbalance that pairs wonderfully with the smoky Cajun flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a twist, serve this chili in halved bell peppers or over baked sweet potatoes for a colorful presentation. You can also turn leftovers into a loaded chili dip topped with melted cheese and served with tortilla chips — perfect for game day or casual get-togethers. Serving chili in mini cast iron skillets or rustic bowls adds extra charm and helps retain heat at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Slap Ya Mama Cajun Chicken Chili Over Rice Recipe to airtight containers. It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making your chili taste even better the next day.
Freezing
This chili freezes very well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty resealable bags, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick and comforting meal anytime.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For the rice, sprinkle a little water over it and microwave covered to restore fluffiness. Add fresh toppings after reheating to keep everything bright and tasty.
FAQs
What makes Slap Ya Mama seasoning special?
Slap Ya Mama seasoning is a beloved Cajun spice blend known for its bold, balanced heat and smoky flavor. It combines garlic, paprika, cayenne, and other spices that bring authentic Southern zest to dishes like this chili.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine but can dry out more easily. If you prefer breasts, cut them into slightly larger pieces and keep an eye on cooking time to maintain juiciness.
Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. You can boost the protein with plant-based crumbles to keep the hearty texture.
How spicy is the Slap Ya Mama Cajun Chicken Chili Over Rice Recipe?
The spice level is medium with warm heat that can easily be adjusted by adding more or less Slap Ya Mama seasoning and chili powder. Toppings like sour cream help mellow the spice if desired.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! This chili tastes fantastic made a day ahead and reheated, which allows all the flavors to marry. Prepare the rice fresh just before serving for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Slap Ya Mama Cajun Chicken Chili Over Rice Recipe is one of those soul-satisfying meals that you will find yourself craving again and again. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress guests. The beautiful blend of spices, hearty ingredients, and comforting rice base come together perfectly in every spoonful. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you’ll quickly see why it’s become a family favorite and a southern classic in my kitchen!
Print
Slap Ya Mama Cajun Chicken Chili Over Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This hearty Cajun-inspired chicken chili recipe features tender boneless chicken thighs simmered with bell peppers, onions, beans, and a robust blend of spices including the signature Slap Ya Mama Seasoning. Served over fluffy long-grain white rice and topped with cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, hot sauce, and creamy avocado slices, this dish is a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Chicken Chili
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers (one red, one green), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Slap Ya Mama Seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt to taste
Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Hot sauce
- Avocado slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thigh pieces dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper, ensuring the meat is well-flavored before cooking.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer (work in batches if necessary) and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until deeply browned. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the same pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
- Simmer the Chili: Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir thoroughly. Add 1 cup chicken broth, Slap Ya Mama Seasoning, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
- Cook the Chili: Return the seared chicken pieces to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to develop deep flavors.
- Season to Taste: After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Slap Ya Mama Seasoning if desired.
- Cook the Rice: While the chili is simmering, combine 1 cup of long-grain white rice, 2 cups chicken broth, butter, and salt in a medium saucepan.
- Simmer the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Then reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Rest the Rice: Remove the rice from heat and keep it covered for 5 minutes to steam. Afterwards, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.
- Serve: Spoon the chicken chili generously over a bed of fluffy rice. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, hot sauce, and avocado slices as desired. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the rich Cajun flavors.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of Slap Ya Mama Seasoning to fit your preferred spice level.
- Cooking the chicken in batches ensures a nice sear without overcrowding the pot.
- Simmering the chili longer can deepen the flavors, so feel free to extend the cooking time up to 1 hour.
- For a spicier kick, add extra chili powder or hot sauce to taste.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun