Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe

Introduction

Cajun Chicken Orzo is a flavorful one-pan dish combining tender chicken, creamy orzo, and a kick of Cajun spice. This comforting recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly.

Ingredients

• 3 chicken breasts, cut into small strips
• 1–3 tbsp Cajun seasoning (use ½ tbsp if your seasoning is spicy)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tbsp butter
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (tomato purée)
• 1 cup (200g) orzo pasta
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth or stock
• 1 cup (30g) shredded spinach
• ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream (double cream)
• 3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese, plus extra to serve

Instructions

1. Step 1: Combine the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning and salt. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pan over medium heat, then pan fry the chicken until it begins to brown.
2. Step 2: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste to the pan. Stir to combine and cook over low heat for five minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
3. Step 3: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for about one minute. Pour in the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pan. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring often. Watch the liquid level and add a little water if the pan gets too dry, as orzo absorbs liquid quickly.
4. Step 4: Remove the lid and check the orzo; it should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Stir in the shredded spinach until it wilts.
5. Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese. Stir well to create a creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with extra parmesan cheese on top.

Tips & Variations

• If you prefer less spice, start with ½ tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and increase to taste.
• Substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a different leafy green flavor.
• For an extra smoky touch, add a pinch of smoked paprika along with the Cajun seasoning.
• Use homemade chicken broth for richer flavor or a good-quality stock cube dissolved in hot water.

Storage

Store leftovers 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 water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Orzo works best because it absorbs the sauce well and cooks quickly, but small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or tiny shells can also be used with similar cooking times.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

This dish can be frozen, but the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. It’s best to freeze before adding the cream and parmesan, then add them fresh when reheating.

Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 125 reviews

This Cajun Chicken Orzo recipe combines tender strips of spiced chicken with creamy orzo pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting, flavorful meal that is easy to prepare in one pan on the stovetop.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Seasoning

• 3 chicken breasts, cut into small strips
• 1–3 tbsp Cajun seasoning (reduce to ½ tbsp if seasoning is spicy)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tbsp butter

Vegetables and Flavorings

• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (tomato purée)

Pasta and Liquids

• 1 cup (200g) orzo pasta
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth or stock
• 1 cup (30g) shredded spinach
• ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream (double cream)

Cheese

• 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra to serve

Instructions

1. Season and Cook Chicken: Combine the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning and salt. Heat butter and olive oil in a large pan over medium heat, preferably a Chef’s pan with a lid. Pan fry the chicken until it begins to brown and develop color.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely diced onion, minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste to the pan. Stir to combine and cook over low heat for about five minutes while stirring frequently to soften and blend the flavors.
3. Add Orzo and Simmer: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for one minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for approximately 20 minutes, stirring frequently. Watch closely as orzo absorbs liquid quickly; add additional water if the mixture dries out too much during cooking.
4. Add Spinach: Remove the lid and check the orzo’s texture; it should be almost tender but still have a slight bite. Stir in the shredded spinach, allowing it to wilt into the mixture.
5. Finish with Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to create a rich, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the dish hot with extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Notes

• Adjust Cajun seasoning amount based on your preference for spice; start with less if unsure.
• Use a large pan with a lid to ensure even cooking and prevent orzo from drying out.
• Keep an eye on orzo while simmering as it requires liquid adjustments.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt, though this will change the texture.
• Extra Parmesan cheese adds a nice garnish and enhances flavor when serving.

Keywords: Cajun Chicken, Orzo Pasta, Creamy Pasta, One-Pan Meal, Cajun Seasoning, Chicken Dinner, Comfort Food