How Spicy is This Cajun Chicken Orzo?

The spice level varies by brand of Cajun seasoning. The one I used is mild to medium with a smoky flavor, which may taste spicy to some. The milk helps tone down the heat. To reduce spice, omit the additional 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. To make it spicier, add more seasoning or cayenne pepper, or reduce the milk to 1/4 cup.

Can I Make This Cajun Chicken Orzo Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free?

The spice level varies by brand of Cajun seasoning. The one I used is mild to medium with a smoky flavor, which may taste spicy to some. The milk helps tone down the heat. To reduce spice, omit the additional 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. To make it spicier, add more seasoning or cayenne pepper, or reduce the milk to 1/4 cup.

How Long Does It Take to Boil Orzo?

Boiling orzo typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes for a firm "al dente" texture. If you prefer it softer, you may need to boil it for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.

One Pot Cajun Chicken Orzo (Risoni)

Name: One Pot Cajun Chicken Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 600g (1.3lb) chicken breasts, cut into large cubes; 2 tablespoons cajun seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 brown onion, thinly sliced; 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 2-4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups (300g) dry orzo (risoni); 2 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup milk of choice (cow, soy, almond)

Description

This cajun chicken orzo (risoni) is a flavourful one-pan meal ideal for busy weeknights. Bursting with spicy cajun seasoning, it’s easy to prepare and packed with protein, carbs, and veggies, making it perfect for leftovers!

Ingredients

Scale

600g (1.3lb) chicken breasts, cut into large cubes
2 tablespoons cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 brown onion, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
2–4 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups (300g) dry orzo (risoni)
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk of choice (cow, soy, almond)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cut the chicken into large pieces and toss with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as it will finish cooking while simmering with the orzo.
Add the peppers and onion to the pan, stirring until the veggies begin to soften.
Stir in the orzo, garlic, tomato paste, broth, and milk. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is tender.
Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and enjoy!

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth and simmer on the stove, or microwave until hot, stirring halfway through.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 532
Sugar: 8.4g
Fat: 7.8g
Saturated Fat: 1.7g
Carbohydrates: 67g
Fiber: 5.4g
Protein: 59.6g