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.
I first served this to my family on a busy weeknight and everyone loved how flavorful and comforting it was without spending hours in the kitchen
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 has become a family favorite bringing everyone together on busy nights and creating warm memories
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
Nutritional Information
Calories 570 Total Fat 27 g Carbohydrates 48 g Protein 37 g
Save Enjoy this flavorful Cajun chicken alfredo orzo as a satisfying meal that’s both easy and delicious
Recipe Help & Answers
- → Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?
Yes, shrimp or smoked sausage make excellent alternatives that complement the Cajun spices and creamy sauce.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Absolutely, mushrooms, peas, or additional spinach can be added for extra color and nutrition.
- → How do I achieve the creamy texture without curdling?
Maintain a gentle simmer after adding cream and milk, and stir frequently to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.
- → What type of cheese is best for this dish?
Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for its nutty flavor and smooth melting properties.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.