Save A creamy, spicy, and comforting one-pot meal combining tender chicken, smoky Cajun spices, velvety Alfredo sauce, and orzo pasta for a quick weeknight dinner.
This cozy recipe blends bold Cajun flavors with creamy Alfredo for a satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare after a busy day.
Ingredients
- Proteins: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 450 g) cut into bite sized pieces
- Vegetables: 1 small yellow onion finely chopped 3 cloves garlic minced 1 red bell pepper diced 1 cup baby spinach roughly chopped (optional)
- Pantry: 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 1/2 cups (300 g) orzo pasta 2 1/2 cups (600 ml) low sodium chicken broth 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
- Spices & Seasonings: 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store bought or homemade) 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Cheeses: 3/4 cup (75 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Garnish: Chopped fresh parsley Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Season the chicken pieces with half of the Cajun seasoning salt and pepper.
- Step 2:
- In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven heat olive oil over medium high heat Add the chicken and sauté until browned and just cooked through about 5 6 minutes Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In the same pot add onion and bell pepper Sauté for 3 minutes until softened Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the orzo smoked paprika remaining Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper Toast the orzo for 1 minute stirring frequently.
- Step 5:
- Pour in the chicken broth heavy cream and milk Stir well scraping any browned bits from the bottom.
- Step 6:
- Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to medium low Cover and simmer for 10 12 minutes stirring occasionally until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Step 7:
- Return the chicken to the pot along with spinach (if using) Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Step 8:
- Taste and adjust seasoning If sauce is too thick add a splash more milk or broth.
- Step 9:
- Serve hot garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan.
Save This dish always brings my family together especially on chilly evenings when comfort food is needed most.
Notes
Additional vegetables like mushrooms or peas can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or Dutch oven with lid Cutting board and knife Wooden spoon or spatula Measuring cups and spoons Grater (for Parmesan)
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (cream milk Parmesan) Wheat (orzo) Possible Celery (in broth) Check Cajun seasoning and broth labels for hidden allergens.
Save Make sure to stir frequently during cooking to prevent the orzo from sticking and ensure a creamy consistency.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?
Yes, shrimp or smoked sausage can be used instead of chicken for variation, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- → How can I make this dish lighter?
Use half-and-half in place of heavy cream to reduce richness while maintaining creaminess.
- → Is it necessary to toast the orzo before cooking?
Toasting the orzo briefly enhances its nutty flavor and helps prevent it from sticking together during cooking.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding mushrooms, peas, or baby spinach boosts nutrition and adds color and texture.
- → What is the best way to adjust spice levels?
Modify the amount of Cajun seasoning and optional cayenne pepper to suit your preferred heat level.