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 dish on a busy weeknight and it quickly became a family favorite for its ease and bold flavors.
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 56 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 1012 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 My family gathers around the table eagerly anticipating this flavorful dish especially on chilly evenings.
Notes
Serve with crusty bread or a green salad Add mushrooms or peas for extra vegetables
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 This one-pot Cajun chicken Alfredo orzo is perfect for quick comforting meals without sacrificing flavor.
Kitchen Help
- → What is the best way to cook the chicken for this dish?
Sauté bite-sized chicken pieces in olive oil over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes, to retain juiciness.
- → Can I substitute orzo with other pasta?
Yes, small pasta like acini di pepe or small shells can be used but adjust cooking times to ensure tenderness.
- → How spicy is this dish with Cajun seasoning?
The Cajun seasoning provides a moderate heat with smoky and savory notes. Adjust cayenne pepper to increase or reduce spiciness.
- → Is it possible to make this dish creamier?
Adding a little extra heavy cream or a splash of milk near the end can enhance creaminess without thinning the sauce.
- → What are good side options to serve with this meal?
Crusty bread, green salads, or steamed vegetables complement the creamy, spicy flavors well.
- → Can spinach be omitted or substituted?
Yes, spinach is optional and can be replaced with kale, peas, or mushrooms for added greens and texture.