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The Ultimate Guide to One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo

The Ultimate Guide to One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo
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The Ultimate Guide to One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo is a creamy, spicy, and comforting meal combining tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta all infused with bold Cajun spices. This one-pot recipe saves time on prep and cleanup while delivering a harmonious explosion of flavors and textures, ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Pasta and Grains

  • 1 cup orzo pasta

Seasonings and Spices

  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (blend of paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and herbs)

Dairy

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Liquids

  • 2 cups chicken broth

Aromatics

  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Fats

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prep and Season the Chicken: Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with the Cajun seasoning until every piece is generously coated, ensuring the bold flavors soak into the meat.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden and slightly crispy on the edges, locking in juiciness.
  3. Toast the Orzo: Once the chicken is mostly cooked, stir in the orzo pasta directly into the pot. Toast the orzo slightly for one to two minutes to enhance its nutty flavor and prevent it from becoming mushy.
  4. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well, scraping any browned bits off the bottom for maximum flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook until the orzo is tender and creamy, about 10–12 minutes.
  5. Stir in Cheese and Finish: Turn off the heat and mix in freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This step thickens the sauce and adds rich savory notes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and give the entire pot a final stir before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh Cajun seasoning for a noticeable difference in flavor.
  • Toasting orzo before cooking improves texture and flavor significantly.
  • Add chicken broth gradually if needed to avoid a soupy sauce.
  • Let the dish rest covered for 5 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated powder for superior taste and creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken, Alfredo orzo, one-pot meal, creamy pasta, spicy chicken, quick dinner, easy recipe, comfort food

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-one-pot-cajun-chicken-alfredo-orzo/