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+ servings
closeup shot of cajun chicken orzo on a spoon

Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo

Casey Rooney
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo dish is bursting with flavor. Made in one pot, it features tender chicken, flavorful Cajun seasoning, creamy orzo pasta, and refreshing vegetables for a satisfying and tasty meal. The best part is that this delicious recipe calls for basic ingredients and comes together in 40 minutes - perfect for busy nights!
5 from 9 votes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner, lunch
Cuisine American, Southern, southwest
Servings 4
Calories 583 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced the best garlic chopper!
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 tsp sea salt or kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 cup chicken broth or chicken stock
  • 1/2 cup half and half can substitute heavy cream
  • chopped green onions/scallions and a squeeze of lemon juice, to taste (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Cook Chicken: In a large skillet over medium high heat, add olive oil. When oil is hot, add chicken in an even layer. Brown on one side (about two minutes), then flip and brown chicken on the other side (1-2 minutes longer).
  • Add: Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir, and continue to cook 3-5 minutes more until onion is soft.
  • Add: Add the diced tomatoes, orzo, and chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning. Give everything a big stir. Bring to boil, reduce heat to medium low, and cover. Cook for about 12-14 minutes until the orzo is al dente. Stir frequently.
  • Finish: Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the half & half. Cook 2-3 minutes more until creamy and liquid is mostly absorbed, Add green onions and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional) and serve right away!

Notes

Nutrition is only an estimate based on the Very Well Fit Nutrition Calculator
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Nutrition

Calories: 583kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 72gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 5.8gCholesterol: 296mgSodium: 1003mgPotassium: 428mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5.4gCalcium: 121mgIron: 5mg
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