Save to Pinterest 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 has quickly become a family favorite as it combines bold flavors and easy preparation that fits perfectly into 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
Save to Pinterest Nothing beats gathering around the table with loved ones enjoying this rich and satisfying meal together
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 to Pinterest This comforting dish is easy to make and always impresses your dinner guests
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
Stir the orzo frequently during the sauté and simmer stages, and ensure there’s enough liquid to avoid clumping.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for milder heat, or add more Cajun seasoning for extra spice.
- → What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can be used for a lighter, less rich sauce without losing creaminess.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Absolutely, mushrooms, peas, or extra spinach can be stirred in to boost flavor and nutrition.
- → How long should the dish simmer?
Simmer covered for 10–12 minutes until the orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- → Can I use different proteins?
Yes, shrimp or smoked sausage are flavorful alternatives that work well with the spices and sauce.