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.
This dish has become a favorite for weeknight dinners because of its ease and flavor balance.
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 the family around the table smiling, sharing stories of the day while enjoying the meal.
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 rich and simple dish is sure to become a staple for busy weeknights with its comforting creamy sauce and savory Cajun kick.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?
Yes, shrimp or Andouille sausage make great alternatives and can be used with slight adjustments to cooking time.
- → Is it possible to use a different pasta than orzo?
Absolutely, other small pasta shapes work well; just adjust cook time accordingly for al dente texture.
- → How can I reduce the richness of the sauce?
Using half and half instead of heavy cream and slightly reducing the cheese will lighten the sauce without sacrificing flavor.
- → What level of spiciness does this dish have?
The Cajun seasoning and optional red pepper flakes add moderate heat, which you can adjust to suit your preference.
- → What side dishes complement this meal best?
Serve with crusty bread or a fresh green salad to balance the creamy, bold flavors.
- → Can I prepare this dish all in one pan?
Yes, the recipe is designed as a one-pot dish to simplify cooking and cleanup.