Cajun Chicken over Creamy Lemon Orzo

Course: Dinner, Pasta

Ingredients:

For Cajun Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Creamy Lemon Orzo:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Juice of 1 lemon (for garnish)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Create shallow scores on each chicken breast approximately 2 inches apart, this will help the seasonings penetrate.

2. Season each chicken breast with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

4. Cook the chicken breasts until fully cooked and golden brown on both sides. Set aside.

5. In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat.

6. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

7. Pour in the orzo pasta and toast it slightly in the butter and garlic.

8. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet.

9. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook until the orzo is tender and the sauce thickens.

10. Season the creamy lemon orzo with salt and black pepper to taste.

11. Slice the Cajun chicken into strips.

12. Plate a portion of creamy lemon orzo and top it with Cajun chicken strips.

13. Squeeze some fresh lemon juice on top and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.