This Easy Cajun Chicken Orzo is a tasty dish that brings a little spice to your dinner table. It features juicy chicken and orzo pasta cooked together with zesty Cajun seasoning.
Honestly, this meal is a perfect way to mix things up on a busy night! I love how quick it is to make, and it’s a crowd-pleaser—everyone goes back for seconds! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. You can substitute with thighs for more flavor, or even use shrimp or tofu for a different twist. If you’re using tofu, make sure to press it first to remove excess moisture.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend gives the dish its signature kick. If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. It’s fun to mix your own spice blends sometimes!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo adds a lovely texture. If you’re out, you can use any small pasta shape like ditalini or even rice, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps the dish balanced. Vegetable broth works great if you’re looking for a meat-free option.
Diced Tomatoes: Feel free to use canned tomatoes if they’re what you have. Fresh diced tomatoes work well too; just make sure they are ripe for the best flavor!
How Do You Perfectly Cook Orzo?
Cooking orzo might seem tricky, but it’s straightforward! The key is to watch the liquid ratio and cook it properly. Here’s how:
- Start by adding orzo to sautéed onion and garlic. Stir it for 1-2 minutes to give it a toasty flavor. This step is often overlooked but makes a big difference!
- When adding chicken broth, ensure it covers the orzo completely. This helps the pasta absorb all the flavors.
- Keep an eye on cooking time. It typically takes 10-12 minutes to cook orzo until al dente, so stir occasionally and adjust the heat to keep it simmering, not boiling.
When the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, it’s ready to mix with the chicken. Remember to let it rest for a minute before serving to let the flavors blend!
Easy Cajun Chicken Orzo
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Time Needed:
This Easy Cajun Chicken Orzo takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss them well to coat evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until they are soft and fragrant—this should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes. Stir constantly to prevent it from sticking or burning.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir everything together to combine well.
6. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Add Chicken Back In:
Once the orzo is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This is your chance to make it just right!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy a deliciously flavorful meal!
FAQ about Easy Cajun Chicken Orzo
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking. The best way to do this is to transfer it to the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo Pasta?
If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with any small pasta like ditalini or even rice. Just remember that cooking times may differ, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to keep it moist.
Is This Dish Spicy?
The spiciness can be adjusted based on your preferences! The Cajun seasoning provides a nice kick, and you can add cayenne pepper for extra heat or skip it entirely if you prefer a milder dish.
