Creamy Orzo with Chicken, Avo and LemonCreamy Orzo with Chicken, Avo and Lemon. Picture: The South African Avocado Growers' Association

It’s FriYAY!!!

We survived the week, and for that, we are counting our blessings. Thank You, Lord!

Now then… you are here, I’m here, and we both know why we showed up. So, enough with the small talk—let’s get straight to the good stuff!

Today’s main character is: Creamy Orzo with Chicken, Avo & Lemon.

And wow… what a way to kick off the weekend!

This dish is creamy, fresh, and so delicious that you might just find yourself “accidentally” making it every weekend. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

I could keep going on about how amazing it is, but where’s the fun in spoiling the surprise? Instead, I will hand over the recipe and let your taste buds do the talking. Happy cooking!

How to make Creamy Orzo with Chicken, Avo and Lemon

Serves: 2-4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • Avocado or olive oil for cooking
  • 30 ml (2 tbsp) Cajun spice
  • 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
  • Juice of ½ lemon + extra
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 250 ml (1 cup) orzo pasta
  • 625 ml (2½ cups) chicken stock
  • 125 ml (½ cup) cream
  • Salt and pepper
  • Handful dill + extra
  • 1 avocado, sliced

Method:

  1. Heat a splash of oil in a large frying pan on medium-high. Mix the Cajun spice through the chicken and fry for about 3 minutes on each side until golden. Squeeze over the lemon juice. Remove chicken from the pan and keep aside.
  2. Add another splash of oil to the pan and fry the garlic and orzo for 2 minutes, while stirring, until toasted. Add the stock, cover and cook for about 8 minutes or until orzo is tender.
  3. Return the chicken with the cream, bring to a simmer and cook for 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and stir through dill.
  4. Serve topped with avocado, garnished with extra dill and lemon slices, with a drizzle of oil over the top.

*The image and recipe were supplied by The South African Avocado Growers’ Association

HAVE YOU TRIED THIS RECIPE?: Today’s Tasty Pick: Baked Chicken Curry with Avo Crema


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By Asanda Mbayimbayi

Asanda Mbayimbayi is an award-winning Lifestyle & Entertainment News Editor and Journalist celebrated for her dynamic voice in digital lifestyle, entertainment, and hard news journalism. Honoured with the Galliova People’s Hero 2025 Award for her authentic storytelling and powerful connection with audiences, she continues to redefine journalism with purpose, empathy, and impact. With an instinct for uncovering stories that resonate and a deep understanding of audience engagement, Asanda brings clarity, depth, and heart to every piece she crafts. Beyond the newsroom, she wears many hats — Researcher, Qualified Bible Teacher, Content Creator, Producer, Motivational Speaker, and Book Editor to name a few — using her creative and spiritual insight to inspire transformation through words. Whether leading editorial teams, producing meaningful content, or motivating audiences, Asanda stands as a storyteller driven by faith, purpose, and the power of narrative to connect and inspire.