Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe
I still remember the first time I made Cajun Chicken Orzo. It was one of those hectic weeknights when time slips through your fingers and dinner seems like a mountain to climb. I wanted something quick, hearty, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth low sodium preferred
- 1 cup diced tomatoes canned or fresh works well
- 1 cup heavy cream swap with coconut milk for a dairy-free option!
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- ½ cup frozen peas optional for extra greens
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Toss it in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat it well so every bite is full of flavor.
- Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, allowing them to sear for 4–5 minutes until golden brown on each side. Remove and set aside.
- Using the same skillet, stir in garlic, diced red bell pepper, and any other veggies you’re adding. Allow them to soften for 3–4 minutes as their natural sweetness blends with the Cajun flavors.
- Add your uncooked orzo to the skillet, letting it soak up the aromatics for a minute. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and heavy cream. Stir everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the orzo doesn’t stick.
- Reintroduce the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss in frozen peas and mix everything well. Cook for an additional 3–5 minutes until the orzo is tender and creamy.
- Once everything’s cooked to perfection, serve the Cajun Chicken Orzo warm. Garnish with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, or a splash of lemon juice for extra zing.
Notes
- For Richer Flavor – Brown the chicken deeply before adding it back to the skillet.
- Customize Spice Levels – Like it spicier? Add cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning. Tone it down? Use a milder Cajun mix.
- Cream-Free Version – Skip the heavy cream and use a little more chicken broth for a lighter take.
- Meal Prep Idea – Double the recipe and freeze portions for quick dinners later!