Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe

Introduction

Cajun Chicken Orzo is a flavorful and comforting one-pan dish that combines tender, spicy chicken with creamy orzo pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it brings bold Cajun spices and a touch of creaminess to every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup orzo
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Toss the diced chicken breasts with the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the orzo to the skillet and toast it for about one minute, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
4. Step 4: Stir in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Step 5: Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning if needed. Cook for another minute until heated through.
6. Step 6: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the Cajun seasoning.
• Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it lighter.
• Use diced cooked shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
• Garnish with shredded Parmesan for added richness.

Storage

Store leftover Cajun Chicken Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy and prevent drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can add pre-cooked chicken in step 4 with the broth and tomatoes to warm through. This will reduce overall cooking time.

Is orzo a type of rice or pasta?

Orzo is a type of rice-shaped pasta made from wheat, commonly used in Mediterranean and Italian dishes.

Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 120 reviews

A flavorful and creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo recipe featuring tender Cajun-spiced chicken breasts, toasted orzo pasta simmered in savory chicken broth with diced tomatoes, and finished with rich heavy cream. Garnished with fresh parsley for a vibrant and comforting one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 2-3 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American Cajun

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Seasoning

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Pasta and Sauce

• 1 cup orzo
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: Toss the diced chicken breasts thoroughly with the Cajun seasoning to ensure every piece is well coated with the spices, enhancing flavor and adding a spicy kick.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Toast the Orzo: Add the orzo to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir and toast the orzo for about 1 minute until it becomes lightly golden and fragrant, which enhances its nutty flavor.
4. Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
5. Simmer the Orzo: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream into the orzo mixture, allowing it to heat through and create a rich, creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a bright, fresh finish, and serve warm.

Notes

• You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the dish will be less rich.
• For added vegetables, consider stirring in chopped bell peppers or spinach alongside the tomatoes.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the salt content if desired.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Ensure orzo is toasted before simmering to enhance flavor and prevent it from becoming mushy.

Keywords: Cajun chicken, orzo pasta, creamy pasta, one-pan meal, Cajun seasoning, quick dinner, comfort food