Description
Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with our mouthwatering Spicy Cajun Chicken Orzo recipe! This one-pot wonder combines the bold, spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine with the versatility of orzo pasta, creating a harmonious blend that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Diced into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and texture.
- Orzo Pasta: The small, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- Onion, Red Bell Pepper, and Celery: The classic Cajun flavor trio, known as the “holy trinity” in Louisiana cooking.
- Garlic: For an aromatic base and added depth of flavor.
- Cajun Seasoning: A blend of spices that gives this dish its signature Cajun kick.
- Chicken Broth and Heavy Cream: Create a creamy, velvety sauce to coat the orzo and chicken.
- Diced Tomatoes: Add a pop of color and acidity to balance the richness.
- Fresh Parsley: Provides a bright, herbaceous finish.
Instructions
1. If you’re making your own Cajun seasoning, simply combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the amount of cayenne to control the heat level.
2. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with half of the Cajun seasoning and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the onion, bell pepper, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning and the orzo. Toast the orzo for a minute, then pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the orzo cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Stir the cooked chicken back into the skillet and let it heat through for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and fold in the fresh parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Serve your Spicy Cajun Chicken Orzo hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired.
Notes
Feel free to customize this Spicy Cajun Chicken Orzo to suit your taste preferences. You can swap in diced andouille sausage for a heartier protein, or try using whole wheat orzo for added fiber. If you prefer a milder dish, start with less Cajun seasoning and gradually increase the heat to your liking.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 70