Name: Cajun Chicken and Sausage Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Cajun-inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 2 tbsp olive oil, divided; 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1.5 cups orzo pasta; 3 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

1

Season the chicken breast on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, and Cajun seasoning.

2

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned on both sides.

3

Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook until browned.

4

Once the chicken is cooked through and the sausage is browned, remove both from the skillet and set aside.

5

To the same skillet, add the diced onion (with more olive oil if needed) and sauté until softened and translucent.

6

Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

7

Stir in the orzo pasta and toast for 1-2 minutes.

8

Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

9

Stir in the heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and the cheese is melted.

10

Chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.

11

Return the chopped chicken and sliced sausage to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through.

12

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve.