Cajun Chicken Orzo
User Reviews
4.8
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
30 mins
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Total Time
40 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
433 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Cajun Chicken Orzo
Description
Cajun Chicken Orzo combines chicken breast pieces seasoned with Cajun spices, slowly cooked with aromatic onions, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Orzo pasta is added and simmered in chicken broth until just tender, absorbing the flavorful liquid. The addition of shredded spinach provides a mild contrast, while blending in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luscious, creamy sauce that binds all components. The cooking process focuses on layering flavors through sautéing and gentle simmering, resulting in a dish with a creamy, slightly spicy profile and a comforting texture.
This dish is typically served warm as a standalone meal given its balanced protein and starch content and creamy consistency. The Parmesan on top adds a savory finish. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to complement the richness.
Leftovers keep well refrigerated for a few days and can be reheated gently with a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess without drying the pasta. Stirring midway through reheating helps maintain the sauce’s smooth texture.
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breast cut into small strips
- 1-3 tbsp Cajun seasoning Note: if your seasoning is spicy add ½ tbsp
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tbsp butter
- 1 onion , finely diced
- 2 garlic minced, cloves
- 2 tbsp sun-dried tomato chopped
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (tomato purée)
- 1 cup orzo pasta 200 g
- 1 cup chicken broth or stock made with a stock cube, 240 ml
- 1 cup spinach 30g, shredded
- 1/4 cup heavy cream double cream, 60ml
- 3 tbsp Parmesan Cheese plus extra to serve, grated
Instructions
- Combine the chicken, Cajun seasoning and salt. Heat the butter and oil in a large pan (a Chef’s pan with a lid is ideal) and pan fry the chicken until it starts to color.
- Add the onion, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste and stir to combine. Cook over low heat for five minutes, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the orzo, cook for a minute or so then add the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, cover the pan and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring frequently. Orzo absorbs liquid readily so keep an eye on the pan and add a little extra water, as needed, if the pan gets too dry.
- Uncover the pan and test the orzo – it should be almost tender but with a little bite to it. Stir in the shredded spinach so that it wilts.
- Stir in the cream and add the grated Parmesan. You should have a deliciously indulgent sauce, creating a perfectly creamy dish. Check the seasoning and serve with extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated on the stovetop with a little added broth or water to loosen the sauce.
- For a spicier dish, adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning carefully, especially if using a particularly hot blend.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 433 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 433kcal | 22% |
| Carbohydrates | 37g | 12% |
| Protein | 45g | 90% |
| Fat | 11g | 17% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Trans Fat | 0.1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 116mg | 39% |
| Sodium | 920mg | 38% |
| Potassium | 1038mg | 22% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 1776IU | 36% |
| Vitamin C | 9mg | 10% |
| Calcium | 80mg | 8% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.8
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