Get ready to transform your weeknight cooking with the most addictive, mouth-watering one-pot meal that's taking social media by storm! This TikTok-famous Cajun Chicken Orzo is not just a recipe; it's a culinary experience that combines bold, spicy flavors with incredible convenience. Imagine a single pot that delivers restaurant-quality taste, minimal cleanup, and maximum satisfaction - all in just 45 minutes!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 cups orzo
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by cutting chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Measure out all spices and have them ready.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Add seasoned chicken to the hot pan and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is lightly browned and nearly cooked through.
- Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pan with chicken. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Pour in orzo and stir to combine with chicken and onions, allowing orzo to lightly toast for 1-2 minutes.
- Add 4 cups of water or chicken broth to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Simmer covered for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent orzo from sticking, until liquid is absorbed and orzo is tender.
- Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Spice Level Control: Adjust the cayenne pepper to match your heat tolerance. Start with less and add more if needed.
- Liquid Ratio is Key: Always ensure you have enough liquid to cook the orzo completely. If it looks too dry during cooking, add a little more broth.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When browning chicken, work in batches if necessary to ensure proper caramelization.
- Stirring Technique: Gently stir the orzo occasionally to prevent sticking, but avoid over-mixing to maintain a nice texture.
- Rest Time Matters: Let the dish sit covered for 5 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld and orzo to absorb remaining moisture.
- Optional Upgrades: Consider adding bell peppers, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 95mg
