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TikTok Made Me Try This Cajun Chicken Orzo!

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When I saw this Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe on TikTok, I knew I had to give it a try! And let me tell you, I wasn’t disappointed! It’s creamy, full of flavor, and very inexpensive!

creamy cajun chicken with orzo on a plate with basil leaves

Tips For Making The Best Cajun Chicken Orzo

  1. Adjust Cajun Seasoning: The amount of Cajun seasoning you use can be adjusted to suit your spice preferences. Start with a smaller amount and add more if you want it spicier.
  2. Blooming Spices: Blooming the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika in the butter can enhance the flavor. Allow them to cook briefly until fragrant before adding the orzo.
  3. Chicken Bouillon: Be cautious with the chicken bouillon or stock you use, especially if you’re adding salt. Taste as you go to avoid over-salting the dish.
  4. Stir Constantly: While simmering the orzo in milk, make sure to stir it constantly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  5. Check Orzo Texture: Orzo can vary in cooking time slightly, so periodically check the texture for doneness. It should be tender but not mushy.
  6. Creaminess: The creaminess of the dish will develop as it cools slightly, so don’t worry if it seems thin at first. It thickens as it sits.
  7. Lemon Zest: Consider adding some lemon zest for a burst of fresh citrus flavor. This complements the richness of the dish.
  8. Garnish Creatively: Get creative with garnishes. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add color and freshness to the finished dish.
  9. Serving Chicken: Slicing the chicken before serving not only looks appealing but also helps distribute it evenly over the creamy orzo.
  10. Leftovers: This recipe makes generous portions, so leftovers can be enjoyed the next day. You might even find that the flavors meld together even better when reheated.

For more TikTok Inspired Recipes check out these videos:

MORE BUDGET FRIENDLY CHICKEN RECIPES TO TRY

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creamy cajun chicken orzo on a plate with basil leaves

Cajun Chicken Orzo

  • Author: Maria Ronan
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x
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Description

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience with this Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo recipe. Succulent Cajun-seasoned chicken served over a velvety bed of orzo, this dish combines rich flavors and creamy textures for a budget-friendly gourmet meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Olive oil
  • Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1/2 red pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons chicken bouillon
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 4 cups milk
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
 

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to make thinner cutlets. Brush them with olive oil and generously sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

  3. While the chicken is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter.

  4. Add chopped onion and red pepper (if using) to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.

  5. Stir in minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

  6. Add 1 1/2 cups of orzo and 1 1/2 teaspoons of chicken bouillon to the skillet. Stir to coat the orzo with the seasoning.

  7. Pour in 1 1/2 cups of water and 4 cups of milk and stir continuously. Bring the mixture to a boil.

  8. Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring for 8-9 minutes or until the orzo is cooked and the sauce has thickened.

  9. Remove from heat and squeeze the juice of 1 lemon into the orzo. Add grated Parmesan cheese and fresh cracked black pepper. Stir until well combined.

  10. Slice the cooked Cajun chicken and serve it over the creamy orzo. Enjoy your creamy Cajun chicken orzo!

Notes

  • Feel free to use any Cajun seasoning of your choice.
  • You can customize this recipe by adding red pepper or other veggies.
  • Adjust the level of Cajun seasoning to your preferred spiciness.
  • This dish is budget-friendly and perfect for a satisfying dinner
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 40

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