Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp Paprika (For Cajun seasoning)
• 1 tbsp Garlic powder (For Cajun seasoning)
• 1 tbsp Onion powder (For Cajun seasoning)
• 1 tbsp Dry coriander (Optional; for Cajun seasoning)
• 1 tsp Black pepper (For Cajun seasoning)
• 1.5 tsp Hot red pepper (Chili powder) (For Cajun seasoning)
• 1 tsp Oregano (For Cajun seasoning)
• 1.25 tsp Salt (1 to 1.5 tsp for Cajun seasoning)
• 2 Chicken breast (Whole breasts)
• 2 tbsp Vegetable oil (For sautéing)
• 1 Onion (Chopped)
• 2 clove Garlic (Minced)
• 1 cup Chicken broth
• 1 cup Bell peppers (Mixed colors, sliced)
• 0.25 cup Sun-dried tomatoes (Chopped)
• 2 tbsp Tomato sauce
• 1 bag Orzo pasta (Approx 400g/14oz; 'Hawa' brand suggested)
• 2 cup Water (As needed to cover pasta)
• 1 cup Heavy cream
• 1 cup Spinach (Chopped)
• Fresh parsley (For garnish)

Steps

1. 1

   Prepare the Cajun seasoning by mixing the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dry coriander (if using), black pepper, hot red pepper, oregano, and salt in a small bowl.

2. 2

   Season the chicken breasts thoroughly with a portion of the prepared Cajun spice blend.

3. 3

   Heat a little oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear on both sides until they take on a deep golden color and are cooked through.

4. 4

   Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.

5. 5

   In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened.

6. 6

   Add one cup of chicken broth to the pot to deglaze the pan.

7. 7

   Stir in the mixed bell peppers, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, tomato sauce, a pinch of oregano, and an additional sprinkle of the Cajun seasoning.

8. 8

   Add the bag of orzo pasta to the pot.

9. 9

   Pour in enough water to cover the pasta, then add one cup of heavy cream.

10. 10

    Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 7 minutes, or until the orzo begins to absorb the liquid.

11. 11

    Add the chopped spinach to the pot and stir everything together until the mixture is creamy and well-combined.

12. 12

    Slice the reserved chicken breasts into strips.

13. 13

    Serve the creamy orzo in bowls, topped with the sliced chicken and a garnish of fresh parsley.

Notes

The author recommends using 'Hawa' brand orzo for its 9-minute cook time and premium quality. The Cajun spice blend can be made in advance and stored.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• one-pot
• chicken
• orzo
• cajun
• creamy
• pasta