Cajun Chicken Orzo
Cajun Chicken Orzo is a bold, creamy one-pan meal packed with smoky spices and comforting flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), diced
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon wedges
Instructions
- Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Stir in orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and cream. Add smoked paprika. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cook 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
- Stir in Parmesan and return chicken to the skillet. Simmer 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra heat, add additional Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter option.
Cajun Chicken Orzo is a bold, creamy one-pan meal packed with smoky spices and comforting flavors. Tender bites of seasoned chicken are seared to golden perfection, then simmered with orzo pasta in a rich, savory sauce infused with Cajun seasoning, garlic, and a touch of cream. Colorful bell peppers and onions add sweetness and texture, balancing the gentle heat of the spices. The orzo cooks directly in the pan, absorbing all the flavorful juices for a dish that tastes like it simmered for hours but comes together quickly. It’s hearty enough for a satisfying weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Finished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for brightness, this dish delivers creamy comfort with a Southern kick in every bite.
