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