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 dish has become my favorite for busy evenings when I want something flavorful yet simple to prepare.
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 recipe always brings my family together around the dinner table, enjoying both the flavors and the shared moments.
Notes
Serve with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal. Add mushrooms or peas for extra vegetables to make it even heartier.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or Dutch oven with lid, cutting board and knife, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons, and 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 Enjoy this rich and creamy Cajun chicken orzo for a delightful comforting meal anytime.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of chicken is best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating.
- → Can I substitute the orzo with another pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells can replace orzo while maintaining texture and cooking time.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Reduce or omit cayenne pepper for milder heat or add extra Cajun seasoning for a spicier kick.
- → Is it possible to use different proteins?
Absolutely. Shrimp or smoked sausage make great alternatives, providing varied flavor profiles while following the same cooking method.
- → What’s the best way to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of milk or chicken broth to reach the desired creamy consistency.