# Components:
→ Proteins
01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 16 ounces), cut into bite-sized pieces
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped (optional)
→ Pantry
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
07 - 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta (about 10.5 ounces)
08 - 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (20 fluid ounces)
09 - 1 cup heavy cream (8 fluid ounces)
10 - 1/2 cup milk (4 fluid ounces)
→ Spices & Seasonings
11 - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
12 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
14 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
15 - Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
→ Cheeses
16 - 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (approximately 2.5 ounces)
→ Garnish
17 - Chopped fresh parsley
18 - Extra Parmesan cheese
# Directions:
01 - Combine chicken pieces with half the Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper; mix thoroughly to coat evenly.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and just cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
03 - In the same pan, add chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté for 3 minutes until softened, then stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
04 - Add orzo pasta, smoked paprika, remaining Cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper to the pan. Toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
05 - Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk. Stir well, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
06 - Return cooked chicken and optional spinach to the pot. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.
