Description
A creamy, savory one-pot dish featuring Cajun chicken and orzo, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided (plus more to taste)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4–6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Toss the chicken with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the chicken in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Lower heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter, then add the onions. Cook for 3–4 minutes until they soften and become translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the dry orzo to the skillet and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Pour in the chicken broth and remaining 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Return the chicken (and any juices) to the skillet. Stir to coat and heat through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Ensure to season the chicken properly with Cajun seasoning. For a twist, try other small pastas or add sautéed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg