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Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo: A Rich, One-Pan Dinner Packed With Bold Southern Flavor

Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo: A Rich, One-Pan Dinner Packed With Bold Southern Flavor
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This Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo is a cozy, one-pan comfort meal packed with bold Cajun flavors, tender chicken, and a silky Parmesan cream sauce. The orzo cooks directly in the skillet, absorbing all the delicious spices and broth for maximum flavor. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • 3 chicken breasts, cut into small strips

  • 1–3 tbsp Cajun seasoning (use ½ tbsp if yours is very spicy)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • ½ tbsp butter

  • 1 large onion, finely diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste (tomato purée)

  • 1 cup (200 g) orzo pasta

  • 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth (or stock made from a cube)

  • 1 cup (30 g) shredded spinach

  • ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream (double cream)

  • 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

Instructions

1. Season and Cook the Chicken

Combine chicken strips with Cajun seasoning and salt.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium-high heat.
Pan-fry the chicken until lightly browned.

2. Add Aromatics

Add onion, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste.
Reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes, stirring often.

3. Add Orzo and Broth

Stir in the orzo and cook for 1 minute.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Cover the pan and cook 20 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add a splash of water if the orzo absorbs liquid too quickly.

4. Add Spinach

Remove the lid and check the orzo — it should be mostly tender.
Stir in shredded spinach and cook until wilted.

5. Finish With Cream & Parmesan

Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan.
Mix until creamy and smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve immediately with extra Parmesan.

Notes

  • Adjust the spice level: Start with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning and add more to taste.

  • Orzo cooks fast: Stir frequently so it doesn’t stick or dry out.

  • Sauce too thick? Add a splash of water or broth.

  • Make it richer: Add an extra tablespoon of Parmesan or a spoon of cream cheese.

  • Add veggies: Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or roasted peppers work well.

Find it online: https://chocotune.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-orzo-a-rich-one-pan-dinner-packed-with-bold-southern-flavor/