Description
A warm, creamy dish with Cajun chicken and tender orzo, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 cup diced onions (fresh is best)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup bell pepper (diced, optional)
- 1.5 cups orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering, then add the chicken for sautéing.
- Add diced chicken, seasoning it with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the browned chicken and set it aside, leaving the flavorful bits in the pot.
- Add diced onions and minced garlic in the same pot. Cook until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes, then stir in diced bell pepper (if using).
- Mix in orzo pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and grated Parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Ladle the warm orzo mixture into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg