Cajun Chicken and Rice

Steps

1. Prepare the Cajun spice mix: In a bowl, combine 1 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1 1/2 tsp sweet paprika, 1 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1 1/2 tsp dried thyme, and 1/2 tsp chili powder. Mix well.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, combine 125 g (half a cup) of mayonnaise with 2 1/2 teaspoons of Cajun spice mix, a pinch of salt, and a touch of cracked black pepper. Mix until thoroughly incorporated; optionally add lemon juice for acidity and adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Prepare the chicken: Butterfly three large boneless, skinless chicken breasts into even sizes and slice them into two even-sized fillets each (or dice/thin slices). Place in a mixing bowl with 4 1/2 teaspoons of Cajun spice mix, a pinch of salt, and cracked black pepper. Mix thoroughly until coated.
4. Sauté the onions for rice: Heat a saucepan over medium heat with a touch of avocado oil. Add one small brown or yellow onion (sliced into thin pieces) and sauté for about 3 minutes until slightly translucent and softened, stirring frequently to sweat off any color.
5. Cook the garlic and spices for rice: After 3 minutes, add three cloves of minced/grated garlic and the remaining two teaspoons of Cajun spice mix. Cook over medium heat for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to release fragrance without burning.
6. Cook the basmati rice: Add 300 g (10.5 oz) of washed basmati rice, 600 ml of cold water, and a touch more salt to the saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 12 minutes undisturbed.
7. Rest the rice: After 12 minutes, remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional four minutes.
8. Sear the chicken: Heat a large pan over medium-high heat with non-erosol avocado oil. Sear the coated chicken in batches (three pieces at a time) for about 3 to 3 1/2 minutes on each side until nicely browned and cooked through. Repeat with remaining chicken.
9. Fluff the rice: Once the rice is cooked, carefully remove the lid and fluff it up with a fork or spatula, ensuring all onion is mixed back in.
10. Assemble meal prep containers: Place the fluffy Cajun rice at the bottom of the 750 ml meal prep containers. Top with sliced or diced chicken breast. Drizzle with the prepared sauce (optional). Optionally garnish with flat leaf parsley. Let cool slightly before sealing and refrigerating.