Description
Spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken tossed with creamy orzo creates an easy, flavorful one-pan dinner that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
Orzo and Sauce
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup cream
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken breast with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until browned on both sides and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Toast the orzo: In the same skillet, add the orzo and toast lightly for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. This enhances the nutty flavor of the pasta.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the orzo is tender, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in the cream and Parmesan cheese to the orzo mixture until creamy and well combined.
- Combine chicken and simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir into the creamy orzo. Simmer together for an additional 2 minutes to heat through and meld flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning as desired.
Notes
- Add fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes toward the end of cooking for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Adjust the spiciness by adding more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of chili flakes according to your heat preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun Fusion
