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 recipe brings warmth and satisfaction to the table whenever I make it, perfect for busy evenings.
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 dish always brings my family together as we enjoy the creamy rich flavors and the little bit of spice that keeps everyone coming back for more.
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). Check Cajun seasoning and broth labels for hidden allergens.
Pin This dish is simple to customize and always satisfying, making it a staple for family dinners year round.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?
Yes, shrimp or smoked sausage can be used in place of chicken to add variety and different textures to the dish.
- → What kind of Cajun seasoning works best?
A well-balanced blend with smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and herbs works well to impart authentic flavor without overpowering the creamy sauce.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much during cooking, simply add a splash of milk or broth to adjust the consistency before serving.
- → Can I make this meal gluten-free?
Traditional orzo contains wheat, but substituting with gluten-free pasta alternatives can adapt the meal for gluten-free needs.
- → Is there a way to add more vegetables to the dish?
Adding mushrooms, peas, or extra spinach during cooking enhances the dish with additional nutrients and flavors.