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 creamy Cajun chicken Alfredo orzo quickly became a go-to recipe on busy nights. I love how everything cooks in one pot and the rich sauce is always a hit with my family.
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 34 minutes until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté for 23 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 12 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 1012 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 My family always gathers around this dish and loves how the creamy sauce complements the tender chicken and perfectly cooked orzo.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or a fresh green salad to round out the meal.
Variations
Add bell peppers or spinach for extra vegetables and color.
Wine Pairing
This dish pairs well with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager.
Save 
This dish combines ease and bold flavor—a perfect weeknight meal that feels special.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?
Yes, shrimp or Andouille sausage work well as alternatives; adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure proper doneness.
- → How do I make the dish less creamy?
Use half and half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese for a lighter sauce.
- → What pasta can replace orzo in this dish?
Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or fregola can substitute orzo for similar texture and cooking times.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, bell peppers, spinach, or other quick-cooking vegetables add color and nutrition when stirred in during cooking.
- → What wine pairs well with this meal?
A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager complements the bold Cajun flavors and creamy sauce nicely.