This Easy Cajun Chicken Orzo is a fun twist on a classic dish! With tender chicken and zesty spices, it’s bursting with flavor and comes together pretty quickly. Orzo adds a unique pasta touch!
You can whip this up in no time and impress your family. I love how the spices give it a little kick—just enough to make things exciting! Add a sprinkle of cheese on top for even more yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is the base for cooking your chicken and veggies. If you’re out, feel free to substitute with canola oil or any other cooking oil you like. Each oil has its unique flavor, but olive oil adds a nice touch.
Cajun Seasoning: This seasoning blend packs a punch! If you don’t have it, try making your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and thyme. You can also use taco seasoning for a different twist.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives a special texture to the dish, but you can swap it for rice or any small pasta like tiny shells or ditalini if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach is a great way to incorporate greens. You can substitute it with kale or frozen spinach. If using frozen, just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting your chicken just right can be tricky. Here’s how to make sure it’s perfectly cooked:
- Keep the skillet hot when adding the chicken. This helps to get that nice browning.
- Cook chicken for about 4-5 minutes until all pieces are golden and no longer pink inside. Avoid overcrowding the pan; work in batches if needed.
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest a minute off the heat before cutting—this helps to seal in those juices.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Orzo in One Pot?
Cooking orzo correctly allows it to absorb flavorful broth while cooking. Here’s how:
- Add orzo after sautéing your aromatics (onion and garlic). This toasts it slightly, enhancing flavor.
- Pour in your chicken broth and bring to a boil. This helps the orzo cook evenly.
- Cover it with a lid and simmer on low heat so it cooks through without burning.
- Check for doneness after about 8 minutes. You want it al dente; it’ll finish cooking when you stir in the cream and chicken.
Easy Cajun Chicken Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional, drained)
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making it a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. This will help to cook the chicken to golden perfection!
2. Season the Chicken:
Add the chicken breast pieces to a bowl and toss them with Cajun seasoning until they are evenly coated. This will give your chicken that distinctive spicy flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it’s softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s nice and fragrant.
5. Toast the Orzo:
Now, stir in the orzo pasta and let it cook for 1-2 minutes. You want to lightly toast it, which adds extra flavor to the dish!
6. Add Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in the chicken broth and the drained diced tomatoes (if you’re using them). Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
7. Simmer:
Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes. The orzo will become tender and most of the liquid will get absorbed.
8. Combine with Cream and Chicken:
Stir in the heavy cream and the cooked chicken pieces. Let everything cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is warmed through. It will become creamy and rich!
9. Add Spinach:
Finally, toss in the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts down. This adds a nice pop of color and nutrients to your dish!
10. Season and Serve:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for that extra flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Cajun Chicken Orzo!
FAQ for Easy Cajun Chicken Orzo
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo is the star of this dish, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even couscous. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different pasta types may require different lengths to cook properly.
How Do I Store Leftover Cajun Chicken Orzo?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore some of the creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative for garnish.
What if I Want a Spicier Kick?
If you love spice, you can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dish. For an extra zing, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when serving!
