This creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo is a delightful mix of tender chicken and small pasta cooked in a rich, cheesy sauce. The spices give it a bit of heat that makes it fun!
You won’t believe how quick and easy this dish is to whip up! I love serving it with a sprinkle of parsley—it’s like adding little green confetti to the party on my plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo: This small pasta shape works great for absorbing flavors. If you can’t find orzo, you can use any small pasta like ditalini or acini di pepe. Quinoa or rice can also work, but the texture will be different.
Chicken Broth: Using chicken broth adds depth of flavor. If you’re vegetarian or don’t have broth, water is fine, or veggie broth for more taste.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice mix gives the dish a kick. If you don’t have it, you can make a quick mix using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and thyme.
Heavy Cream: Essential for that creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half, but know that it will be less rich. Almond milk can work, though it won’t be as creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, cheesy flavor. Romano or Pecorino can be used instead if you want a sharper taste.
How Can You Perfectly Cook the Chicken?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, it’s easy! First, ensure you coat the chicken strips evenly with Cajun seasoning for balanced flavor. Heat the skillet until it’s good and hot before adding the chicken. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Cook the chicken on medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
How to Make Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo takes about 20-30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken strips. In a bowl, toss the sliced chicken with Cajun seasoning until all the pieces are evenly coated. Set it aside to absorb the flavors while you prep the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Orzo:
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth (or water) to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes, until it’s al dente. After cooking, drain any excess liquid if necessary and set the orzo aside for later.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken strips. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Allow it to melt, then stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant. Next, slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Add Cheese and Season:
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it’s melted and smooth. Taste your sauce, adding salt and black pepper according to your preference.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked orzo back into the skillet, stirring to coat the pasta with the Alfredo sauce. Then, gently add the cooked Cajun chicken on top and give everything a light stir until well combined.
7. Serve:
Spoon the creamy Cajun chicken Alfredo orzo into plates or bowls. Finish with a garnish of chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve warm and enjoy every bite of this delicious dish!
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo is perfect for this recipe, you can substitute it with any small pasta like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta you choose.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a milder blend. You could also add a touch of cream to the sauce if it ends up too spicy for your taste.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and make the Alfredo sauce up to 2 days in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, combine and heat them on the stove while adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
