Bojangles' Seasoned Rice features fluffy, perfectly cooked grains infused with a blend of bold Cajun spices and savory herbs, delivering a flavorful and aromatic side dish with vibrant color and a tender, slightly sticky texture.
Equipments
- Rice cooker or medium saucepan with lid
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing rice)
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 cups long grain white rice
- 3 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Using low-sodium chicken broth instead of water enhances the rich, savory flavor while keeping the sodium content in check. Make sure to rinse the long grain white rice thoroughly with a fine mesh strainer to remove excess starch, ensuring a fluffy, non-sticky texture. The bold Cajun spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, and dried herbs such as thyme and oregano provide a vibrant, aromatic taste that's essential for authenticity. Minced garlic and chopped fresh parsley add depth and freshness to the dish, balancing the spices. Your Bojangles' Seasoned Rice, inspired by the Bojangles copycat menu, will deliver the perfect blend of tender grains and flavorful seasoning with a beautiful, vibrant color.
Instructions
- Rinse rice in a fine mesh strainer under cold water until water runs clear; drain well.
- Heat vegetable oil in a rice cooker (set to cook) or a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and red bell pepper; sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt; cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
- Add rinsed rice; stir to coat the grains with the oil and spices.
- Pour in low-sodium chicken broth; add bay leaf.
- Bring mixture to a boil (if using saucepan); stir once, then reduce to low heat and cover with lid.
- Simmer for 18–20 minutes (saucepan) or set rice cooker to cook until done.
- Remove from heat (or keep rice cooker on warm); let rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf.
- Fluff rice with a fork or wooden spoon.
- Stir in chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve warm.
Substitution
Bojangles' Seasoned Rice from the Bojangles copycat menu offers a vibrant and aromatic side dish with fluffy grains infused with Cajun spices and savory herbs. If you don't have low-sodium chicken broth, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or water mixed with bouillon for similar flavor. When using a rice cooker, adjust the liquid ratio slightly to avoid overcooking; typically, reduce broth by 1/4 cup. If fresh parsley is not available, dried parsley can be used but add it during cooking to release its flavor. Your choice of spices can be modified based on heat preference--reduce cayenne pepper for a milder taste or add extra for more spice.
Tips
Rinsing the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear removes excess starch and prevents clumping, ensuring fluffy grains. Using low-sodium chicken broth instead of water enhances the flavor without overpowering the Cajun spices. Avoid lifting the lid during simmering to maintain consistent steam and cook the rice evenly. After cooking, let the rice rest covered for 5 minutes before fluffing to allow moisture to distribute properly for a tender texture.
Nutritions
Bojangles' Seasoned Rice offers a nutritious blend of long grain white rice enriched with low-sodium chicken broth, providing essential carbohydrates and moderate protein. The inclusion of vegetables like onions and red bell peppers adds dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, plus antioxidants, supporting immune health. Bold Cajun spices and herbs, including garlic, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper, contribute anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits without adding calories. This flavorful side dish supports your energy needs while enhancing your meal with nutrient-dense ingredients and minimal added sodium.
Storage
Store leftover Bojangles' Seasoned Rice in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to maintain its texture and flavor. For best quality, consume within 3 to 4 days, reheating thoroughly until steaming hot before serving. You can also freeze the rice for up to 2 months, thawing in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute low-sodium chicken broth with vegetable broth to make the dish vegetarian without compromising flavor. For a nuttier texture, try using brown rice, but increase the cooking time and liquid by about 25%. Swap out cayenne pepper for smoked paprika to add a deeper smoky flavor while reducing heat. Consider sauteing diced celery along with the onion and bell pepper to introduce an extra layer of aromatic complexity.
Allergies
Bojangles' Seasoned Rice contains ingredients like chicken broth and vegetable oil, which may trigger allergies in individuals sensitive to poultry or certain oils. The presence of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper can also cause reactions in people allergic to specific seasonings. You should always check for potential allergens in the spices and broth used to ensure the dish is safe for your dietary needs.
Why this recipe?
Bojangles' Seasoned Rice features a unique blend of bold spices and savory flavors that perfectly complement the restaurant's signature Cajun-inspired dishes. The rice is fluffy yet well-coated with seasoning, making every bite flavorful and satisfying. Many fans appreciate how this dish balances taste and texture, enhancing the overall meal experience. You can recreate this delicious side at home to enjoy the authentic taste and customize the spice level to match your preferences.