Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe

Cajun chicken orzo is a quick and hearty meal filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and Cajun-seasoned orzo pasta. This one-pot dish is perfect for busy nights when you want a flavorful, filling meal without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Method:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and sprinkle Cajun seasoning. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Sauté until soft.
3. Add the orzo and cook for 2 minutes to toast slightly.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the orzo is cooked, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked chicken, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Variations & Tips:

• Add shrimp for a seafood twist to this Cajun orzo dish.
• Incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the Cajun seasoning.

Conclusion:

Cajun chicken orzo is a delicious one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, creamy orzo, and flavorful spices. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that will leave everyone satisfied.