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In the world of weeknight dinners, finding a recipe that balances flavor, ease, and health can sometimes feel like a daunting task. Enter Zesty Cajun Chicken Orzo, a vibrant dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also simplifies your cooking routine. This one-pan meal combines tender chicken thighs, hearty orzo pasta, and a medley of colorful vegetables, all infused with a delightful Cajun seasoning that brings a spicy kick to your plate. Perfect for busy families or anyone looking to spice up their dinner rotation, this recipe ensures you can serve a nutritious, satisfying meal without the fuss.

CAJUN CHICKEN ORZO

Elevate your weeknight dinners with Zesty Cajun Chicken Orzo, a vibrant one-pan meal bursting with flavor! This delightful dish combines juicy chicken thighs, hearty orzo pasta, and colorful vegetables, all seasoned with a spicy Cajun kick. Perfect for busy evenings, it's nutritious, satisfying, and easy to make. Say goodbye to kitchen chaos and hello to a tasty culinary experience! Try this recipe for a delicious family meal. #CajunChicken #OnePanDinner #EasyRecipes #HealthyEating #Foodie #ComfortFood #DinnerInspo
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Ingredients
  

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup orzo pasta

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cup sliced mushrooms

2 cups chicken broth

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated.

    Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet, and let it rest on a plate before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent.

        Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

          Combine Chicken and Orzo: Once the orzo is cooked, return the sliced chicken to the skillet and stir gently to combine all ingredients. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through.

            Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zest.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4