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 quickly became my go-to for hectic evenings, thanks to its ease and satisfying taste.
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 around the dinner table with smiles and compliments.
Notes
For a lighter dish, use half and half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese slightly. Shrimp or Andouille sausage make excellent chicken substitutes adjust cook times accordingly. 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 simple one pot meal is sure to become a favorite for your weeknight dinners.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?
Yes, shrimp or Andouille sausage are excellent alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure proper doneness.
- → How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?
The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes. Reduce or omit red pepper for milder flavors.
- → What type of pasta works best in this dish?
Orzo pasta is recommended for its size and texture, but other small pasta shapes can be used as substitutes.
- → Can I make this dish lighter without losing flavor?
Using half and half instead of heavy cream and slightly reducing the cheese can lighten the dish while maintaining creamy texture.
- → What sides pair well with this creamy Cajun dish?
Crusty bread, a crisp green salad, or steamed vegetables complement the dish and balance its richness.
- → Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Traditional orzo contains gluten. For gluten-free options, substitute with gluten-free pasta varieties.