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Cajun Chicken Orzo: A Spicy, Creamy One-Pan Delight


  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A bold and creamy one-pan Cajun Chicken Orzo recipe packed with smoky spices, tender chicken, and a luscious Parmesan-infused sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup baby spinach (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Toss chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

  1. Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet.
  2. Add onion and bell pepper, sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

  1. Pour in the orzo and stir to coat with flavors.
  2. Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
  2. Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  3. Stir until cheese melts and sauce becomes creamy.
  4. Fold in fresh parsley and spinach (if using), allowing greens to wilt slightly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove from heat and let sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
  3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Protein Swap: Use shrimp or sausage instead of chicken.
  • Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk for cream and nutritional yeast for Parmesan.
  • Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or corn.
  • Spicier Version: Increase Cajun seasoning or add hot sauce.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta One-pan orzo recipe Spicy chicken orzo Creamy Cajun pasta Easy weeknight dinner