Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe
This Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe. Is a delightful blend of bold Cajun spices. And creamy orzo pasta. Making it a comforting yet exciting dish. The chicken is seared to perfection. Absorbing all the spices. While the orzo simmers in a rich, savory broth. Spinach adds a fresh, vibrant touch. And a final stir of Parmesan cheese. Creates a creamy, indulgent sauce. That brings everything together. It's a quick, one-pan meal. That's perfect for busy weeknights. Yet impressive enough for guests.
4 Servings
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts sliced into small strips
- 1-3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning use ½ tablespoon if your seasoning is particularly spicy
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ tablespoon butter
- 1 finely diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste or tomato purée
- 1 c 200 grams orzo pasta
- 1 c 240ml chicken broth (or stock made with a stock cube)
- 1 c 30 grams shredded spinach
- ¼ c 60ml heavy cream (or double cream)
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
Instructions
- Mix the chicken. With the Cajun seasoning. And salt. In a large pan. Heat the butter and oil. Over medium heat. Add the chicken. And cook. Until it begins to brown.
- Next, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stirring everything together. Cook on low heat. For about five minutes. Making sure to stir regularly.
- Incorporate the orzo into the mixture. Cooking for about a minute. Before pouring in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pan. And cook for approximately 20 minutes. Stirring often. Since orzo tends to absorb liquid quickly. Keep an eye on it. And add extra water if necessary. To prevent it from drying out.
- Once the orzo is nearly tender. But still slightly firm. Remove the lid. And stir in the shredded spinach. Until it wilts.
- Mix in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Creating a rich, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Then serve with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese.
Notes
To make this Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe gluten-free. Simply swap out the orzo. For a gluten-free pasta alternative. Like gluten-free penne or fusilli. Ensure your Cajun seasoning. And chicken broth. Are certified gluten-free as well. The rest of the ingredients. Are naturally gluten-free. So with these simple substitutions. You can enjoy this delicious dish. Without any worry. The result is just as flavorful. And satisfying. With all the creamy, spicy goodness you expect.