This Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo is a tasty twist on a classic favorite! It’s creamy, spicy, and super satisfying, featuring tender chicken and soft orzo pasta all mixed with that rich Alfredo sauce.
I love how the Cajun spices give it a kick that keeps things fun! Plus, it’s so easy to make. Just cook, mix, and enjoy a big bowl of comfort. What’s not to love about that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo pasta: This small pasta is perfect for creamy dishes! If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with rice or any small pasta like ditalini or couscous. They will all work well to absorb the flavors.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice here. You can also use thighs for a juicier bite, or even shrimp if you want a different protein. Just adjust the cooking time for shrimp, as they cook faster!
Cajun seasoning: This brings tons of flavor. If you can’t find it, you can make your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme. Adjust to taste depending on how spicy you like it.
Heavy cream: For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or even whole milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce might be a bit less creamy.
How Do You Cook Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo may seem simple, but keeping it from turning mushy is key. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use plenty of chicken broth for flavor! Bring it to a boil before adding the orzo.
- Cover the pot while the orzo simmers, as this helps it cook evenly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, but don’t overdo it. This helps maintain the pasta’s shape.
- Test the orzo for doneness a minute or two before the recommended cook time. You want it al dente, not mushy!
Using these tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked orzo for your delicious Cajun Chicken Alfredo!
Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips or bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing ingredients and cooking the chicken, followed by another 20 minutes to cook the orzo and create that creamy Alfredo sauce. Enjoy a delicious homemade meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by tossing the chicken pieces in the Cajun seasoning until they’re evenly coated. This gives the chicken that delicious spicy flavor! Set aside while you heat the olive oil for cooking.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer and let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Orzo:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with the butter. When the butter melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until it’s fragrant but not browned—just delicious!
4. Add Orzo and Broth:
Next, stir in the orzo pasta, making sure it gets coated in the butter and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Then, lower the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and let the orzo cook for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom.
5. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
Once the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Cook over low heat, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Add salt, black pepper, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you like!
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked Cajun chicken to the skillet and gently toss everything together, allowing it to warm through and mix with that creamy sauce.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve your Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and a sprig of rosemary for a lovely touch. Enjoy your flavorful creation!
Dig in and savor every creamy and spicy bite of your Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken Instead?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken can save you time. Just shred or chop the cooked chicken and add it to the orzo in the last few minutes of cooking to heat it through.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, you can use any small pasta like ditalini, fregola, or even some types of rice such as Arborio for a creamy risotto-style dish. Adjust cooking times accordingly!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
To amp up the heat, you can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add extra crushed red pepper flakes when making the Alfredo sauce. A dash of hot sauce can also intensify the spice without altering the consistency!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply omit the chicken and use a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor!
