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Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo

Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo made in one pan with juicy chicken thighs, garlic, cream, and Cajun spices. Perfect for weeknights.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings 3 people
Cost $6

Ingredients

Cajun Seasoning

  • 1 tbsp Paprika
  • 1/2 tbsp Cayenne pepper
  • 1 tbsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Black pepper
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 3/4 tbsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Cumin

Chicken & Orzo

  • 4 boneless, skinless Chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 1/2 Onion, diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 1/4 cups Dry orzo
  • 1 cup (250 mL) Chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (125 mL) Heavy cream
  • Juice of 1/6 Lemon

Garnish

  • Fresh Parsley chopped

Instructions

  • Make the Cajun seasoning:
    In a small bowl, mix together paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, black pepper, Italian seasoning, salt, and cumin until evenly combined.
    chicken orzo
  • Season the chicken:
    Pat chicken thighs dry and coat both sides generously with the Cajun seasoning.
  • Sear the chicken:
    Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. They do not need to be fully cooked yet. Remove and set aside.
    chicken orzo
  • Sauté aromatics:
    Reduce heat to medium. In the same pan, melt butter and add diced onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  • Bloom the seasoning:
    Add 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning into the pan and stir it into the butter and onions. This step helps release the oils in the spices and builds deeper flavor.
    chicken orzo
  • Toast the orzo:
    Add the dry orzo to the pan and stir for about 1 minute so it lightly toasts in the spices and butter.
  • Add liquid and chicken:
    Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well. Gently place the chicken thighs back into the pan. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, or until:
    -orzo is tender
    -chicken is fully cooked
    -sauce is creamy and thickened
    Stir occasionally so nothing sticks.
  • Finish:
    Remove the lid and stir everything together. Adjust seasoning if needed. The lemon helps cut through the richness and balances the spice. If it is too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.
    chicken orzo
  • Serve:
    Top with chopped parsley and parmesan cheese if using. Serve hot straight from the pan.