Description
A delightful dish that combines Cajun flavors with creamy orzo pasta, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus 1 tablespoon for cooking)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, toss the cubed chicken with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. In a separate small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer; cook in batches if necessary. Cook for 5-7 minutes until cooked through and golden brown. Remove and cover to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute. Then introduce the chopped bell peppers and cook for 5 more minutes.
- Add the orzo pasta, stirring to coat with the vegetables. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then add oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until orzo is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Once orzo is tender, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Add the cooked chicken back and season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.
Notes
This dish can be made lighter by using turkey or tofu and whole-grain or gluten-free orzo. Adjust spices for your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg