Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo

Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Cajun-inspired
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken breasts; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; black pepper, to taste; 1 tsp paprika; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups orzo; 4 cups chicken broth; 5.2 oz Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

This creamy Cajun chicken orzo is a one-pan weeknight dinner that combines seasoned chicken, tender pasta, and a rich Boursin-based sauce, ready in under 30 minutes.

🌍Cajun-inspired 🏷️Cajun chicken 🏷️Orzo 🏷️One-pan meal 🏷️Weeknight dinner Creamy pasta

🏷️

🏷️Comfort food

-0:00

britscookinonTikTok

Total

30 min

Servings

4

Difficulty

Easy

Est. Cost

$28–$46

Recipe Source

View original recipe

From TikTok · by britscookin

-0:00

britscookinonTikTok

Ingredients

1.5 lbs chicken breasts
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
black pepper, to taste
1 tsp paprika
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups orzo
4 cups chicken broth
5.2 oz Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnishoptional

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Instructions

1
Season chicken breasts generously on all sides with Cajun seasoning, black pepper, and paprika.
2
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3
Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet and cook for a few minutes per side, until browned and cooked through.
4
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5
In the same skillet, add the chopped bell pepper and onion. Sauté for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
6
Add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant.
7
Stir in the orzo and toast for a couple of minutes, coating it in the pan drippings.
8
Pour in the chicken broth, stir, and bring to a simmer. Cook until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
9
Reduce heat and stir in the Boursin cheese until it melts and forms a creamy sauce.
10
Chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it back to the skillet.
11
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
12
Mix everything together until well combined. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Cut chicken breasts to uniform thickness (about 1 inch) so they cook evenly without drying out.
Stir the orzo frequently once added to the pan to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking with the sauce.
Add the Boursin off heat or over low heat to prevent the cheese from breaking or becoming grainy.
Taste and adjust Cajun seasoning at the end — the cheese adds richness but not spice.

Substitutions

Chicken breasts → chicken thighs (use 2 lbs; slightly longer cooking time for tenderness)
Boursin → cream cheese + heavy cream + garlic powder + Cajun spices (mixed to taste)
Green bell pepper → red or yellow bell pepper (sweeter, same cooking time)
Orzo → penne or ditalini pasta (adjust liquid ratio slightly)

Storage & make-ahead

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of orzo or pasta?

Yes. Any short pasta like penne, ditalini, or small shells works well. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the shape.

What can I substitute for Boursin cheese?

Cream cheese mixed with Cajun seasoning, herbs, and garlic powder provides a similar creamy base. Alternatively, use heavy cream with grated cheddar and a pinch of garlic.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.