Cajun Chicken Orzo

Cajun Chicken Orzo

40 min
4 servings

Cajun Chicken Orzo – this one-pot chicken breast recipe is packed with flavor and easy to prepare. Deliciously creamy and comforting and one of my favorite midweek meals.

Ingredients

  • 3 chicken breasts (, 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 cloves (, minced)
  • 2 tbsp chopped sun-dried tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste ((tomato purée))
  • 1 cup (200g) Orzo pasta
  • 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth ( or stock made with a stock cube)
  • 1 cup (30g) shredded spinach
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream ( (double cream))
  • 3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese (, plus extra to serve)

Directions

  1. 1

    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.

  2. 2

    Add the onion, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste and stir to combine. Cook over low heat for five minutes, stirring frequently.

  3. 3

    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.

  4. 4

    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.

  5. 5

    Stir in the cream and add the grated Parmesan. You should have a deliciously indulgent creamy dish. Check the seasoning and serve with extra Parmesan cheese.