Save A quick and creamy one-pot meal that blends tender chicken, al dente orzo, and a zesty Cajun Alfredo sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish delivers bold flavors and comforting richness in just 30 minutes.
I first served this to my family on a busy weeknight and everyone went back for seconds. The creamy sauce combined with the Cajun spices makes it a memorable dish.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, diced (substitute with shrimp or Andouille sausage if desired); salt and black pepper, to taste
- Spice Blend: 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust for spice preference); 1 tsp smoked paprika (regular paprika can be used); 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Base: 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 1 medium onion, chopped (yellow or sweet preferred); 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Pasta: 1 cup (190 g) orzo pasta (substitute with other small pasta if needed)
- Sauce: 2 cups (480 ml) low sodium chicken broth; 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter version); 1 cup (90 g) Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- Garnish: 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sear for 3 4 minutes until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté for 2 3 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine. Toast for 1 2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Step 4:
- Pour in chicken broth and sprinkle in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 5:
- Remove skillet from heat. Gradually stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Step 6:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Heat through for 1 minute. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 7:
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Save This recipe always brings my family together especially after a long day. Sharing this creamy, flavorful meal creates wonderful memories.
Notes
Add bell peppers or spinach for extra vegetables and color. Serve with crusty bread or a green salad. Pairs well with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or light lager.
Required Tools
Large skillet with lid, Wooden spoon or spatula, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Measuring cups and spoons, Grater (for Parmesan)
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter, cream, Parmesan cheese) and gluten (orzo pasta). May contain traces of other allergens always check ingredient labels if sensitivity is a concern.
Save This dish is perfect for quick weeknight dinners and always impresses guests with its rich flavors.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, shrimp or Andouille sausage can be used as alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure proper doneness.
- → How can I reduce the richness of the sauce?
Using half and half instead of heavy cream and slightly reducing the Parmesan cheese will lighten the sauce without sacrificing flavor.
- → What pasta can I use instead of orzo?
Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small elbows work well as substitutes, providing a similar texture and absorption of flavors.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely, tossing in bell peppers, spinach, or other quick-cooking vegetables adds color and nutrients to the meal.
- → What is the best way to season the chicken for this dish?
Season the diced chicken simply with salt and black pepper before searing, allowing the Cajun spices in the sauce to provide the main flavorful heat.
- → What cooking tools are needed?
A large skillet with lid, wooden spoon or spatula, chefs knife, cutting board, measuring cups, and a grater for the Parmesan are recommended.