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 enjoyed making this dish on a busy weeknight and was amazed at how quickly it came together while delivering bold flavors that everyone loved.
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 quickly became a family favorite during busy weeknights bringing everyone together over a comforting, flavorful meal.
Notes
For a lighter version use half and half instead of heavy cream Swap chicken with shrimp or smoked sausage for variation 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.
Save This dish is perfect for a quick dinner that doesn't compromise on flavor or comfort.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?
Yes, shrimp or smoked sausage can be used instead of chicken for a different flavor and texture.
- → How can I make the dish lighter?
Use half-and-half in place of heavy cream to reduce richness without sacrificing creaminess.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Adding mushrooms, peas, or spinach enhances both color and nutrition, blending well with the existing flavors.
- → What cooking tools are necessary for this dish?
A large deep skillet or Dutch oven with a lid is ideal to sauté, simmer, and combine all ingredients efficiently.
- → How do I know when the orzo is perfectly cooked?
Simmer until the orzo is tender and most liquids are absorbed, usually around 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.