This Easy Cajun Chicken Orzo Dinner is a quick and tasty meal perfect for busy nights. With juicy chicken, flavorful Cajun spices, and tender orzo pasta, it’s a winner!
I love how the spices make everything so zesty. Plus, it all cooks in one pot, which means fewer dishes to wash. That’s a huge score in my book! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this dish as they stay juicy and tender. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken breasts work well too. For a vegetarian twist, consider using plant-based chick’n pieces or cooked beans.
Orzo Pasta: The tiny pasta is perfect for this dish, but if you can’t find orzo, you could replace it with any small pasta like ditalini or acini di pepe. Rice could also work, but you may need to adjust cooking times and liquid amounts.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend is crucial for the authentic flavor. If you’re out, you can create a substitute with paprika, oregano, cayenne, thyme, and garlic powder. Adjust according to your taste, especially if you prefer milder heat.
Cream: Heavy cream makes the dish rich and luscious. If you want a lighter version, use half and half or even cashew cream for a dairy-free option. You can also skip it for a broth-based sauce.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken properly is vital for flavor and safety. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by heating olive oil in the pan so the chicken sizzles when added. This helps it cook quickly.
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces; this ensures even cooking. About 1-inch cubes work well.
- Cook until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink inside, usually about 5-7 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
Letting it rest before adding it back to the dish helps keep it juicy! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Cajun Chicken Orzo Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (green or yellow), diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for creaminess)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy dinner option that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet or deep pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, sprinkling them with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Cook the Veggies:
In the same pan, add the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté these until they are softened, around 3-4 minutes. The kitchen will smell heavenly!
3. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the pan, stirring well to coat it with the flavorful oil and veggies. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the orzo is lightly toasted and golden.
4. Simmer with Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the broth is absorbed.
5. Creamy Mixture:
Stir in the heavy cream, the remaining Cajun seasoning, the optional smoked paprika, and the cheese if you’re using it. Mix everything together well and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the dish is nice and creamy.
6. Add the Chicken & Spinach:
Return the cooked chicken to the pan along with the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through. This is where the dish comes together!
7. Season and Serve:
Before serving, taste the dish! Adjust the seasoning with more salt, black pepper, or Cajun seasoning if needed. Serve warm, garnished with extra chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color!
Dig in and enjoy the spicy, smoky flavors of this creamy Cajun chicken orzo dinner. It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Proteins in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap out chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—shrimp only needs about 3-4 minutes, while sausage may need a bit longer to cook through.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta or rice. Just be sure to check the chicken broth as well, ensuring it’s gluten-free.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the sauce if needed.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, but for best results, freeze the chicken orzo before adding the cream and spinach. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months, then thaw and cook the cream and spinach just before serving for a fresh taste!
