Ingredients
Method
- Step 1 — Season and brown the chicken: Cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, and Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 2 — Brown the sausage: Add sliced smoked sausage to the same skillet. Cook 2–3 minutes until browned. Transfer both chicken and sausage to a plate and set aside. Do not wipe the skillet.
- Step 3 — Sauté the aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion to the skillet, adding more olive oil if needed. Cook 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4 — Toast the orzo: Add dried orzo to the skillet. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden and nutty-smelling.
- Step 5 — Simmer the orzo: Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer 10–12 minutes, stirring every 3–4 minutes, until orzo is tender.
- Step 6 — Finish and serve: Remove lid. Stir in ½ cup heavy cream and ½ cup shredded Parmesan until thick and creamy. Add chicken and sausage back to the skillet and stir to combine. Heat through 1–2 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Nutrition
Notes
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating on the stovetop (5 min) or microwave (2 min, covered). This dish reheats beautifully — perfect for meal prep.
Substitutions: Use andouille sausage for more authentic Cajun flavor. Use chicken thighs instead of breast for juicier results. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and nutritional yeast.
Spice Level: Start with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and add more at the end to taste. Omit for a kid-friendly version.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo pasta or substitute with rice.
Add Vegetables: Toss in diced bell pepper with the onion, or stir in fresh spinach at the end for extra nutrition.
Reheating: Add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating on the stovetop (5 min) or microwave (2 min, covered). This dish reheats beautifully — perfect for meal prep.
Substitutions: Use andouille sausage for more authentic Cajun flavor. Use chicken thighs instead of breast for juicier results. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and nutritional yeast.
Spice Level: Start with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and add more at the end to taste. Omit for a kid-friendly version.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo pasta or substitute with rice.
Add Vegetables: Toss in diced bell pepper with the onion, or stir in fresh spinach at the end for extra nutrition.