Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice Orzo

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish that comes together quickly and packs a punch of spice and creaminess, look no further than this Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice Orzo. This one-pan wonder combines tender diced chicken breast, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, and a luscious, spicy Cajun cream sauce that will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds!). It’s a fantastic weeknight dinner option that satisfies those bold flavor cravings without a ton of fuss.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This dish strikes the perfect balance between creamy and spicy, thanks to the Cajun seasoning and rich heavy cream. The orzo pasta cooks directly in the savory chicken broth, absorbing all those delicious flavors while creating a creamy, risotto-like texture without the need for constant stirring. Plus, it’s a complete meal all in one pot—protein, carbs, and veggies—making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re a Cajun food lover or just looking for a new creamy chicken recipe, this is a guaranteed winner that you’ll want in your regular rotation.

Ingredient List

• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color you prefer)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment Breakdown

• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the chicken and vegetables
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure precise seasoning and liquid amounts
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring during cooking
• Knife and cutting board – to prep the chicken and veggies
• Grater – for freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions: Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice Orzo

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken breast seasoned lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Orzo and Seasoning

Stir in the orzo pasta and Cajun seasoning, ensuring the orzo is coated evenly with the spices and combined well with the vegetables.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Simmer

Carefully pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream, Cheese, and Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring gently until the sauce is creamy and the cheese has melted. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.

Step 6: Season and Garnish

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning if desired. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

• Chicken: Use thigh meat for a juicier, more flavorful option.
• Orzo: Substitute with other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or even couscous.
• Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
• Parmesan Cheese: Swap with Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese alternative if preferred.
• Cajun Seasoning: Make your own blend using paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

• Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese boosts the flavor and melts more smoothly than pre-grated varieties.
• Be sure to stir the orzo occasionally while it simmers to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• If you like your dish spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce along with the Cajun seasoning.
• For extra veggies, toss in some chopped spinach or mushrooms when sautéing the onions and peppers.

Best Ways to Store

This Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice Orzo keeps well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This dish also freezes well — store portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ask & Learn

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. Prepare the dish completely, then store it in the fridge. Simply reheat on the stovetop or microwave when ready to eat, adding a little extra broth or cream to refresh the sauce.

Is orzo a type of rice?

Orzo is actually a rice-shaped pasta made from wheat flour. It cooks quickly and has a smooth, tender texture, making it perfect for creamy dishes like this one.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand?

You can easily make your own Cajun blend using common spices: paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix to taste and add it to the dish just like the store-bought seasoning.

Can I substitute the chicken broth with something else?

If you prefer, you can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or use water with a bouillon cube. Just be mindful of the salt content and adjust seasoning accordingly.

What to Make After This

• Cajun Chicken Pasta In Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce – another creamy, flavorful Cajun-inspired dish that’s perfect for pasta lovers.
• Tomato Feta Orzo Bake One Dish – a baked orzo dish that brings together tangy tomatoes and creamy feta for a delightful twist.
• Classic Chicken Alfredo – for those who enjoy rich creamy sauces without the heat.
• Spicy Shrimp and Andouille Sausage Jambalaya – to keep exploring bold Cajun flavors in a hearty rice dish.

Ready, Set, Cook

Gather your ingredients, grab your skillet, and get ready to whip up a dish that’s bursting with flavor and creamy comfort. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice Orzo will quickly become a family favorite. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness that balances the spice perfectly. Enjoy every bite of this delicious, easy-to-make meal!

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