Description
Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo is a delectable one-pot meal that combines the bold flavors of Cajun spices with tender chicken and creamy orzo pasta. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, taking just 30 minutes from prep to table. The rich and creamy sauce, made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, clings to each bite of orzo and chicken, making it a comforting choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. Customize your dish by adding seasonal vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your preferences. With its quick preparation and satisfying flavors, Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo is sure to become a staple in your weeknight rotation.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 thinly sliced chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup orzo
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh thyme (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until fully cooked (165°F). Remove and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add butter, orzo, diced onion, minced shallot, and more Cajun seasoning; sauté for about 3 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth, increase heat to medium, and cook for about 7 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet; let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh thyme and lemon wedges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1.5 cups (360g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 105mg