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 served this to my family on a chilly evening and it instantly became a favorite thanks to its rich flavors and easy preparation.
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 dish always brings my family together around the table on busy weeknights and sparks happy conversations.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 570 Total Fat: 27 g Carbohydrates: 48 g Protein: 37 g
Save This creamy Cajun chicken Alfredo orzo never fails as a comforting and satisfying meal to end the day.
Recipe FAQ
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
To reduce heat, omit the cayenne pepper or use less Cajun seasoning. For extra spice, add more cayenne or smoky paprika.
- → Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?
Yes, shrimp or smoked sausage work well and suit different flavor preferences.
- → What makes the sauce creamy?
The combination of heavy cream, milk, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese creates a rich, velvety texture.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Mushrooms, peas, or additional greens like spinach enhance flavor and nutrition.
- → How should I cook the orzo for best texture?
Simmer the orzo gently in broth and cream mixture, stirring occasionally until tender and mostly absorbed.
- → Can I lighten the dish without losing flavor?
Using half-and-half instead of heavy cream reduces richness while maintaining creaminess.