Pin 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 quickly became one of my favorites for busy evenings because it combines bold flavors and minimal cleanup.
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.
Pin This recipe always brings my family together after a long day with its comforting flavors and easy prep.
Notes
Add mushrooms or peas for extra vegetables. Serve with crusty bread or a green salad.
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.
Pin Serve this dish immediately for the best creamy texture and savor the rich Cajun flavors in every bite.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?
Yes, shrimp or smoked sausage can be used instead of chicken to create different flavor profiles.
- → Is it necessary to use fresh Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds a richer flavor, enhancing the creamy sauce texture.
- → How can I adjust the heat level in this dish?
Adjust cayenne pepper or Cajun seasoning amounts to increase or reduce spiciness according to preference.
- → Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or couscous can substitute for orzo for similar texture and cooking times.
- → What can I do if the sauce becomes too thick?
Add a splash of milk or chicken broth gradually until desired sauce consistency is reached.