1. Start by rinsing the rice under cold water to remove any excess starch. Drain well and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon or spatula.
3. Once the meat is cooked, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened and translucent.
4. Add the Cajun seasoning, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables with the spices.
5. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the meat and vegetable mixture.
6. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped green onions before serving
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