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
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3 chicken breasts, cut into small strips
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1–3 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
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1 tsp salt
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1 tbsp olive oil
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½ tbsp butter
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1 large onion, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp chopped sun-dried tomatoes
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1 tbsp tomato paste (or tomato purée)
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1 cup (200g) orzo pasta
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1 cup (240ml) chicken broth or stock made with a cube
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1 cup (30g) shredded spinach
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¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
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3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (plus more to serve)
Instructions
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In a bowl, toss chicken strips with Cajun seasoning and salt.
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Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until slightly browned.
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Stir in the onion, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
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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.
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Once the orzo is al dente, stir in the shredded spinach until wilted.
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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