Save to Pinterest 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 comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something satisfying without the hassle.
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 to 4 minutes until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté for 2 to 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 to 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 to 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 to Pinterest Serving this meal always brings warmth to our family dinners and invites wonderful conversations around the table.
Recipe Variations
Add bell peppers or spinach for extra vegetables and color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or a green salad to complete the meal.
Pairings
Pairs well with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or light lager.
Save to Pinterest This recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor that makes weeknight dinners memorable.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?
Yes, shrimp or Andouille sausage both work well and bring their own unique flavors. Adjust their cooking times accordingly for best results.
- → Is it possible to make this dish less rich?
Use half and half instead of heavy cream and slightly reduce the Parmesan cheese to lighten the sauce while maintaining creaminess.
- → What type of pasta can replace orzo?
Small pasta shapes similar to orzo, such as acini di pepe or small ditalini, can be used without altering the cooking process significantly.
- → How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Ingredients like bell peppers or fresh spinach can be added during the sautéing steps to boost flavor and color.
- → What wine pairs well with this meal?
A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager complements the creamy and spicy elements nicely.
- → How do I ensure the orzo cooks perfectly?
Simmer the pasta in chicken broth with spices covered on low heat, stirring occasionally, until al dente and most liquid is absorbed.