This Chicken and Chorizo Orzo is the perfect quick, weeknight meal – it’s ready in 20 minutes, made in one pan, nourishing, packed with protein, and absolutely delicious! It’s also a perfect recipe to meal-prep ahead of time to make life a little bit easier.
One-pan, twenty-minute meals are my love language. There’s nothing worse than getting to the end of a busy day and needing to make dinner. This Chicken and Chorizo Orzo is going to be a game-changer for you! It’s incredibly easy to make, and because it’s made in one pan, you will have minimal dishes to wash too – I love that for us.
By making this recipe in one pot, the orzo cooks in the liquid and releases starch, making the sauce extra thick and creamy!
This Chorizo Chicken Orzo is packed with protein (55g per serving!), has added veg for optimum health, and a bit of orzo never hurt nobody. It’s creamy, slightly spicy, tomatoey, and very, very yummy. Served alongside a salad or on its own, this Chicken and Chorizo Orzo is the perfect way to end the day!
I also love meal-prepping this recipe for lunches or dinners by doubling the recipe to make four servings instead of two – it makes life SO much easier and better.
So the next time you have little time or energy to cook a delicious dinner, don’t grab the takeout menu – pull up this recipe, and you’ll have an incredible, nourishing dinner within 20 minutes. You’re welcome.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Chorizo Orzo
- It’s ready in 20 minutes.
- You only need one pan – less washing up!
- Perfect for meal-prep.
- Made with minimal ingredients.
- Contains 55g protein per serving.
- Very, very delicious.
- It’s good for your soul and your body.
What makes this Chicken and Chorizo Orzo Healthy?
While this Chicken and Chorizo Orzo recipe is undeniably delicious, it also offers numerous health benefits thanks to its wholesome ingredients:
High Protein Content: Chicken and chorizo are both rich sources of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Protein also helps keep you feeling full and satisfied, making this dish a satisfying option for any meal.
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: The addition of baby tomatoes provides a burst of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. These nutrients support immune function, heart health, and overall well-being.
Whole Grain Orzo: If you can, try to use Whole Grain Orzo – it provides more fiber, B vitamins, and minerals such as magnesium and iron than regular Orzo. Fiber aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Healthy Fats: While chorizo contains fats, it also provides healthy monounsaturated fats, particularly if you choose a leaner variety. These fats can support heart health and may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Balanced Meal Option: This dish combines protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables in one convenient and flavorful meal. It offers a balanced macronutrient profile, making it suitable for fueling your body and providing sustained energy throughout the day.
By enjoying this Chicken and Chorizo Orzo, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also nourishing your body with essential nutrients for optimal health and vitality.
Ingredients and Substitutions
I’ve listed the ingredients below, to see the measurements and the full recipe, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this page!
Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide a great amount of protein and less fat than any other cut of chicken. The chicken gets diced into small pieces for a quicker cooking time. You can use Chicken Thighs instead if you prefer!
Chorizo – Provides extra protein and a delicious smoky, salty flavor.
Baby Tomatoes – For an extra boost of health, the tomatoes add volume to the dish as well as a touch of sweetness. It also serves as one of your 5-a-day.
Tomato Puree – Adds an acidic note to the dish to cut through the salty chorizo and spiciness of the sauce.
Cajun Spice – Adds a smoky, spicy flavor to the sauce. You can also use smoked paprika if you prefer.
Orzo – Orzo is a form of short-cut pasta shaped like a large grain of rice. Orzo is traditionally made from flour, but you can also use whole grain orzo. This recipe won’t work with a different pasta shape as you’ll need a lot more liquid to cook.
Milk – Adds extra protein and also makes the sauce nice and creamy!
Equipment Needed
How to Make Chicken and Chorizo Orzo
Here is a detailed summary of how to make this Chicken and Chorizo Orzo; I’ve also included some photos, and you can watch the recipe video here. At the bottom of this page is a summarized version that can be printed.
Step One:
Cut your chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. Slice your chorizo into coins and then quarters and slice your tomatoes in half.
Step Two:
Heat your pan on medium-high heat then add your chicken and chorizo. Fry for 3-5 minutes until slightly browned.
Step Three:
Add the tomatoes and cook for a further 3-5 minutes until they have softened.
Step Four:
Add tomato puree and cajun spice and then mix well to coat the chicken, chorizo, and tomatoes.
Step Five:
Add Uncooked Orzo and Milk and mix well. Bring to a boil and turn the heat down to a simmer. Stir regularly to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom and burning.
Step Six:
As the sauce thickens, add boiling water (a quarter cup at a time) until the sauce has thickened and the orzo is cooked – around 8-10 minutes.
Step Seven:
Remove from the heat and add salt and pepper to taste. Top with some fresh basil or parsley and serve hot with a side salad or on a bed of spinach.
Tips and Notes
Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun spice or omit it altogether. Alternatively, for extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Cook Orzo Al Dente: Keep an eye on the orzo while it cooks to ensure it doesn’t become mushy. Cooking it al dente (firm to the bite) will yield the best texture for this dish.
Customize Veggies: Feel free to add additional vegetables to the dish, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, for added flavor and nutrition.
Use Quality Chorizo: Opt for high-quality chorizo with a robust flavor, as it will greatly enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Double the Recipe: This recipe can easily be doubled to serve more people or to have leftovers for future meals. Simply adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.
Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro over the finished dish for a pop of color and freshness.
Make it Dairy-Free: If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative such as almond milk or coconut milk for a creamy texture without dairy.
How to Store Chicken and Chorizo Orzo
After preparing the Chicken and Chorizo Orzo, allow it to cool completely before storing.
Refrigeration: Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The dish will keep well for up to three days.
Freezing: If you’d like to store the Chicken and Chorizo Orzo for longer-term use, you can freeze it. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
Thawing and Reheating: When ready to enjoy the frozen portion, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed to your liking.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. However, keep in mind that thighs may require slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Chicken and Chorizo Orzo is perfect for meal prepping. Simply prepare the dish according to the recipe instructions, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily make this dish dairy-free by substituting the milk with a non-dairy alternative such as almond milk or coconut milk. This swap will still provide a creamy texture without the use of dairy products.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftovers of this Chicken and Chorizo Orzo for later consumption. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of Cajun spice or omit it altogether. For those who enjoy extra heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.
more quick dinner recipes you may enjoy
- Asian Chicken Slaw with Honey Peanut Dressing
- One Pot Creamy Feta Chicken Bake (45g protein per serving!)
- Chickpea Pesto Couscous Salad
- Creamy Pesto Prawn Fettuccine (Easy & Healthy!)
Hey! If you make this Chicken and Chorizo Orzo, I would love it if you could leave me some feedback and a rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ in the comment section at the bottom of the page! Also let me know on Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts and see your photos!
Creamy Cajun Chicken and Chorizo Orzo
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 Skinless, Boneless Chicken Breasts 300g
- 50 g Chorizo
- 160 g Baby Tomatoes, halved (1 cup)
- 2 tbsp Tomato Puree
- 1 tsp Cajun Spice
- 150 g Uncooked Orzo (1 cup)
- 1 cup Milk
- ½-1 cup Boiling Water
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add diced chicken and sliced chorizo. Cook for 3-5 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add halved baby tomatoes and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in tomato puree and Cajun spice, ensuring chicken, chorizo, and tomatoes are evenly coated.
- Add uncooked orzo pasta, milk and ½ cup boiling water to the pan, stirring well to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened. Add more boiling water as needed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Video
Notes
- You can use Chicken Thighs instead of Chicken Breast if you prefer.
- Play around with the veggies, seasonings and herb to adjust the taste to your preference.
- You can easily double the recipe to make four servings.
