Name: Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 lb chicken thighs, skinless and boneless; 3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; ½ cup yellow onion, finely diced; ½ tablespoon minced garlic; ½ cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 cups fresh baby spinach; ½ cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; ½ cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh thyme, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 57 reviews

If you’ve been searching for a dish that combines the smoky, spicy flair of Cajun cuisine with the creamy comfort of pasta, look no further than this Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned chicken thighs grilled to juicy perfection, nestled atop a bed of luscious, cheesy orzo pasta studded with vibrant spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe balances bold, vibrant flavors with creamy textures, making it a star for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. It’s a soulful meal that delivers maximum flavor without fuss, and once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white rectangular tray in the center holds five large pieces of raw chicken thighs, pale pink with some white fat. Around the tray are small white bowls and glass bowls arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. To the top right is a white bowl full of fresh, bright green spinach leaves. Below that, another white bowl contains dry, light brown orzo pasta. Next to it is a small white pitcher filled with golden-yellow broth. Near the bottom center are two small glass bowls, one with light yellow butter and the other with olive oil. To the left are two white bowls, one with finely chopped white onions and the other with grated pale cheese. At the very bottom left is a large bright yellow lemon. At the top left corner are four glass bowls filled respectively with minced garlic, pink salt, dark red dried tomatoes, and a mix of brown-red spices. The overall layout is clean and organized, with all items easy to see and framed by the bright marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze, yet every single one plays a pivotal role in crafting the rich harmony of flavors and textures you’ll find in this dish. From the earthy spices to the fresh greens and creamy cheese, they come together to create something truly special.

2 lb chicken thighs, skinless and boneless: Juicy and tender, perfect for absorbing the Cajun seasoning.
3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided: Delivers that iconic spicy, smoky kick that defines this recipe.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Provides a subtle fruity richness and helps with sautéing and grilling.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds depth and creamy mouthfeel to the sauce.
½ cup yellow onion, finely diced: Brings a mild sweetness and aromatic base to the dish.
½ tablespoon minced garlic: Infuses savory warmth that complements the Cajun spices.
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Offers tangy bursts of concentrated tomato flavor and a pop of color.
2 cups orzo pasta: The star of the creamy base with its small, rice-like shape that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
2 cups chicken broth: Adds savory moisture and helps cook the orzo perfectly.
2 cups fresh baby spinach: Brings freshness and a lovely green vibrancy, wilting down nicely into the creamy sauce.
½ cup heavy cream: Creates the luxe, velvety texture that makes this dish so comforting.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness with a zingy pop.
½ cup fresh grated parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a nutty, savory finish.
Fresh thyme: Adds a subtle earthy aroma and pretty garnish.

How to Make Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Season and Grill the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a kitchen towel—this helps the seasoning stick and ensures a great sear. Massage the Cajun seasoning and salt evenly over the chicken, letting those flavors really soak in. Heat a grill pan with two tablespoons of olive oil until shimmering, then grill the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a beautiful char with juicy, cooked-through meat. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest while you prepare the sauce base.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and a tablespoon of butter. The butter adds richness that pairs beautifully with the Cajun spice. Toss in the finely diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them just until they release their fragrant sweetness—about a minute. Then stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to add bursts of tang and color.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Next, add the orzo pasta to your skillet, stirring for about a minute to lightly toast it and coat it with the oils and aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth and let the mixture simmer gently, cooking for 5 to 7 minutes or until most of the liquid has absorbed and the pasta is nearly tender.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Spinach Sauce

Once the orzo is just about done, add the fresh baby spinach. Stir until the vibrant greens wilt down completely, infusing the dish with their mild, fresh flavor. Then pour in the heavy cream, stirring as everything melds together into the silky sauce you’ve been dreaming about. Cook just a few minutes more until the pasta reaches that perfect creamy consistency you crave.

Step 5: Finish with Bright Lemon and Cheese

Now for the final flourish—stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice and a generous handful of grated parmesan cheese. The lemon juice cuts through the richness while the parmesan melts into a deliciously savory blanket coating every bite. Plate the creamy orzo and top with your grilled chicken thighs, then scatter fresh thyme leaves across the dish for that touch of garden-fresh aroma and eye-catching detail.

How to Serve Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe

A white pan with a dark rim and handles is placed on a white marbled surface with a striped cloth beside it. Inside the pan, on the left side, there is one layer of cooked orzo pasta mixed with small pieces of sun-dried tomatoes, showing a golden yellow color with darker brown spots. On the right side, there is a layer of fresh, bright green spinach leaves, fresh and whole, covering almost half the pan. The contrast between the warm orzo and the cool green spinach is clear. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like thyme or chopped parsley not only brighten the flavor but make the presentation pop with color. A light dusting of extra parmesan cheese or a lemon wedge on the side invites diners to customize their experience. These simple garnishes elevate the dish and make every serving feel special.

Side Dishes

This Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe is filling on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or warm crusty bread for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce. Each accompaniment adds its own texture and freshness, making the meal feel complete and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests, try plating this dish in shallow bowls or rustic cast iron skillets for a cozy, inviting vibe. Layer the orzo first then fan out the sliced chicken thighs on top. Drizzle a little olive oil or a balsamic glaze for added gloss and flavor layers. Presentation is key to impressing your friends and family—and this dish shines no matter how you serve it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers of this Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The rich cream sauce thickens as it chills, so you may want to loosen it with a splash of broth or milk when reheating. Enjoy within 3 to 4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

While freezing creamy dishes can sometimes affect texture, you can freeze this orzo carefully by cooling it completely and packing it in a sealed, freezer-safe container. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove with a little added liquid to restore creaminess. It’s a great way to enjoy this Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe on a future busy day.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. Add small amounts of chicken broth, cream, or even a splash of water as needed to revive the creamy sauce. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent curdling and uneven warming. This approach preserves the dish’s luscious texture and bold flavor every time.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work well, but keep in mind they can dry out more quickly than thighs. Watch your cooking time closely and consider slightly reducing grilling time to keep the chicken juicy.

Is this Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe very spicy?

The Cajun seasoning used here brings a moderate heat level balanced by the creamy sauce. If you prefer mild flavors, you can reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a milder blend.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based alternative and omit the parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese option. The flavors will still be vibrant and satisfying.

How do I get the orzo perfectly cooked?

Simmer the orzo in chicken broth until the liquid is mostly absorbed, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Finish cooking with cream and spinach for that ideal tender yet slightly firm texture.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

Roasted red peppers or even cherry tomatoes sautéed briefly can provide a similar burst of sweetness and color if you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand.

Final Thoughts

This Cajun Chicken Orzo Recipe is truly a keeper—bringing spicy, creamy, and vibrant elements together in a way that makes every bite feel cozy yet exciting. Whether you’re cooking for your family after a busy day or looking to wow your guests, this dish delivers comfort and flavor with ease. Give it a try and prepare to have a new favorite in your dinner rotation!