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One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo: Quick & Creamy Delight Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 771 reviews

This One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo is a quick and creamy delight that combines tender Cajun-spiced chicken with a luscious alfredo sauce and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. With warm spices and a rich, cheesy sauce, this dish brings comfort and bold flavors in a single skillet, making it an easy weeknight favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

  • 1 lb Chicken Diced (can substitute with shrimp or Andouille sausage)

For the Spice Blend

  • 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (adjust salt and heat levels as preferred)
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (regular paprika can be substituted)
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional for extra heat)

For the Base

  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil (for sautéing)
  • 2 tbsp Butter (enhances creaminess; add more if desired)
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped (yellow or sweet preferred)
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced (for flavor)

For the Pasta

  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta (main carbohydrate; other small pasta can be substituted)

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (makes the dish flavorful)
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (can substitute with half and half for a lighter version)
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated (preferred)

For the Garnish

  • 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sear until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add and Toast Pasta: Add orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Toast the orzo for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden, which enhances its nuttiness.
  4. Simmer Orzo: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is al dente and most of the broth is absorbed.
  5. Create Sauce: Off the heat, gradually stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until a creamy and smooth sauce forms.
  6. Combine and Heat Through: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir gently to combine. Heat through for about one minute to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Cajun spice as desired.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot as a satisfying one-pot meal.

Notes

  • Substitute chicken with shrimp or Andouille sausage for different protein options.
  • Adjust the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to control spice levels according to preference.
  • Use half and half instead of heavy cream to reduce fat content if desired.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor, but pre-grated cheese can be used in a pinch.
  • Make sure to stir gently when adding cream and cheese off the heat to avoid curdling.
  • This dish is best enjoyed immediately but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Keywords: One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo, Cajun Chicken, Creamy Alfredo, Orzo Pasta Recipe, One-Pot Meals, Quick Dinner, Cajun Seasoned Chicken

Find it online: https://kochenmitviktoria.com/one-pot-cajun-chicken-alfredo-orzo-quick-and-creamy-delight-recipe/