If there’s one thing I know about weeknight dinners, it’s that they need to be easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing. Enter Cajun Chicken Orzo—a dish that hits all the right notes. It’s spicy, creamy, packed with comforting goodness, and comes together in just one pan (yes, really!). If you’re juggling work, kids, or just trying to avoid another night of sad takeout, this recipe is your new best friend.
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Why You’ll Love This Cajun Chicken Orzo
Imagine the bold kick of Cajun seasoning, tender strips of chicken, and the silky texture of orzo pasta—all swirled together in a luscious cream sauce. It’s a hug in a bowl with a Southern twist. Plus, it’s quick to make, easy to clean up, and picky-eater approved (as long as you go light on the spice).
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious one-pan wonder:
- 3 chicken breasts, cut into small strips
- 1–3 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
- 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 made with a cube
- 1 cup (30g) shredded spinach
- ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
- 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (plus more to serve)
How to make Cajun Chicken Orzo : Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season and Sizzle
Toss those chicken strips in Cajun seasoning and salt. Heat up your pan with olive oil and butter, then cook the chicken until it’s just starting to brown and smells amazing.
2. Build the Flavor Base
Add diced onion, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir everything together and let it cook over low heat for about 5 minutes. You’re building that savory, deep flavor here, so don’t rush it.
3. Cook the Orzo
Stir in the orzo and cook it for a minute before pouring in the chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for about 20 minutes. Stir often—this pasta loves to soak up liquid, so keep an eye on it.
4. Wilt and Cream It
Once the orzo is just al dente, stir in the spinach and let it wilt into the hot pasta. Then, add the cream and Parmesan cheese. Give it a good stir and taste for seasoning. Sprinkle with more cheese if you’re feeling fancy (and honestly, why not?).
Kitchen Tips from My Stove to Yours
- Spice Control: Start with 1 tbsp of Cajun seasoning if you’re feeding little ones or spice-sensitive folks. Add more if you love that fiery kick!
- No orzo? Small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice work in a pinch.
- Leftovers: This reheats beautifully. Just add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
A Little Story From My Kitchen
I first whipped up this Cajun Chicken Orzo on a random Tuesday when my fridge looked like a ghost town. Somehow, a few pantry staples, a lone chicken breast, and a bag of spinach turned into magic. My family was hooked from the first bite—and now it’s in our regular rotation.
FAQs About Cajun Chicken Orzo
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Absolutely! Half-and-half works fine, or go for a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a slightly different flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.
What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
You can skip them or use a few chopped cherry tomatoes for a fresher twist.
Let’s Wrap This Up
Cajun Chicken Orzo isn’t just a recipe—it’s your weeknight savior. Creamy, spicy, and irresistibly comforting, it brings the whole family to the table without any kitchen drama. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids or just need a warm bowl of something wonderful, this dish delivers every time.
It’s the kind of meal that makes you look like a hero with barely any effort. Even better? The leftovers taste just as magical the next day—if you’re lucky enough to have any! So go ahead, make a double batch, pour yourself a glass of something you love, and revel in the delicious simplicity. You might just fall in love with dinner again.
Discover More Flavorful Chicken Dishes You’ll Love
If Cajun Chicken Orzo tickled your taste buds, you’re in for a treat with these equally irresistible recipes! Each one adds a fresh twist to the comforting, family-friendly meals we all crave—without requiring a culinary degree or hours in the kitchen.
- For another creamy orzo sensation, try this decadent Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo—perfect for anyone who loves Italian flair with minimal effort.
- Want something cheesy and cozy? Don’t miss the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo, a one-pan favorite that’s ideal for busy nights.
- Add a gourmet touch to dinner with Cranberry and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie, where savory meets sweet in the best way possible.
- Craving comfort food with a Southern kick? The Honey BBQ Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Potatoes is a guaranteed family-pleaser.
From stovetop favorites to oven-baked crowd-pleasers, Chicken Magic Recipes has your weeknights (and taste buds) covered!
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Cajun Chicken Orzo
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Cajun Chicken Orzo is a creamy, one-pan wonder packed with bold Cajun flavors, tender chicken, and a comforting orzo base—perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
3 chicken breasts, cut into small strips
1–3 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
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 (or tomato purée)
1 cup (200g) orzo pasta
1 cup (240ml) chicken broth or stock made with a cube
1 cup (30g) shredded spinach
¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (plus more to serve)
Instructions
In a bowl, toss chicken strips with Cajun seasoning and salt.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until slightly browned.
Stir in the onion, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add the orzo and stir for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Once the orzo is al dente, stir in the shredded spinach until wilted.
Add the heavy cream and Parmesan. Mix well and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Start with less Cajun seasoning if you’re spice-sensitive.
Add a splash of water or broth while cooking if the pan dries out.
Leftovers reheat well—just add a bit of milk or broth to loosen.
Can be made dairy-free with coconut cream and vegan Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop, One-Pan
- Cuisine: American , Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 485 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 740 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg