Rinse and dry
If your rice needs rinsing, swish it under cold water until the water runs less cloudy, then drain it well and set it aside. Pat the Trout (whole fish, recommend) very dry with paper towels, including the cavity if using whole fish, so it will brown instead of steam in the pan.
Season the trout
Season the trout all over, inside and out if whole, with Cajun Seasoning (Slap Ya Momma), Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Oregano, Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper, Cayenne Pepper, Red Chili Flakes, and Lemon Pepper. Lightly dust both sides with Flour, then gently shake off any excess so you get a thin coating rather than a heavy crust.
Soften the aromatics
Set a medium pot over medium heat and add a small splash of Olive Oil. When the oil looks loose and shimmery, add the Onions (minced) and cook, stirring, until softened and lightly translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the Garlic, Thyme, Rosemary, a small extra pinch of cajun seasoning, and a little extra paprika, then cook for 30 seconds more, just until fragrant.
Simmer the rice
Add the drained rice to the pot and stir for 1 to 2 minutes so the grains are coated in the oil and seasonings. Pour in the Chicken Broth, then add the Bay Leaves and Saffron. Raise the heat and bring everything to a boil, then lower to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 18 minutes.
Heat the skillet
While the rice cooks, place a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat and add a thin layer of olive oil. Let the pan heat until the oil shimmers and the fish should sizzle the moment it touches the surface.
Pan-fry the trout
Lay the seasoned trout into the hot skillet and cook without moving it until the coating is golden and the fish releases easily from the pan, about 4 to 5 minutes on the first side. Carefully flip and cook the second side for 3 to 5 minutes more, until the trout is opaque and flakes easily with a fork at the thickest part.
Fluff and serve
Remove the bay leaves from the rice, then fluff it gently with a fork. Taste and adjust with a little more salt, black pepper, cajun seasoning, or red chili flakes if needed. Spoon the rice onto plates or a serving platter and place the trout on top or alongside. Spoon over any flavorful pan drippings and serve right away while everything is hot.














