Ingredients (Serves ~4)
Chicken + Seasoning
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1 lb (≈ 450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite‑sized pieces Carol Bee Cooks+1
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1 tablespoon olive oil Carol Bee Cooks
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Cajun seasoning: about 1 tbsp — or use a Cajun seasoning blend (see notes below) Carol Bee Cooks+1
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Salt & pepper, to taste
Orzo & Sauce
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2 tablespoons butter Carol Bee Cooks+1
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4 cloves garlic, minced (or 3–4) Carol Bee Cooks+1
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1 cup (≈ 240 ml) chicken broth (or stock) Carol Bee Cooks+1
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1.5 to 2 cups milk (2% or whole milk works) Carol Bee Cooks+1
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1 cup uncooked orzo pasta Carol Bee Cooks+1
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¼ cup heavy cream (or cream substitute) Carol Bee Cooks+1
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¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Carol Bee Cooks
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Optional: chopped parsley for garnish Carol Bee Cooks+1
Instructions
1. Season & Sear the Chicken
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In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil — make sure all pieces are coated. Carol Bee Cooks+1
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Heat a large, high‑rimmed sauté pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, then add the chicken. Sear until browned and mostly cooked through — about 4–6 minutes per side. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside. Carol Bee Cooks+1
2. Build the Alfredo‑Orzo Base
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In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for ~1 minute until fragrant (don’t let it burn). Carol Bee Cooks+1
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Pour in the chicken broth and milk — scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom (that’s flavor!). Carol Bee Cooks+1
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Add uncooked orzo to the liquid, stir to combine, then bring to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer. Stir occasionally so orzo doesn’t stick. Carol Bee Cooks+1
3. Finish with Cream & Cheese
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When orzo is nearly tender (after about 15–20 minutes — timing depends on orzo brand), stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until cheese melts and sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Carol Bee Cooks+1
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Cut the seared chicken into bite-sized pieces (if not already) and return to the pan. Stir gently to combine chicken with creamy orzo. Heat through for another 2–3 minutes.
4. Serve & Garnish
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Taste and adjust seasoning (add salt/pepper or a sprinkle more Cajun seasoning if you like more heat).
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Garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot. Optionally, add extra grated Parmesan on top.
