Description
One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo is a delightful fusion of bold Cajun flavors and creamy, indulgent comfort. This easy-to-make, one-skillet dish is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering a satisfying and flavorful meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoon butter (divided)
- 1/2 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry orzo
- 2 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes (to taste)
Instructions
- Start by tossing the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning, ensuring each bite is coated in the bold, spicy blend.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium, then add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Cook the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add the dry orzo to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, for 1-2 minutes to toast the pasta and bring out its nutty flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring often, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and smoked paprika (along with optional red pepper flakes, if you want an extra kick). Stir until the sauce is creamy and well-combined.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Heat through, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a truly satisfying one-pot meal.
Notes
One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo is a hearty, satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or a side of garlic bread. For a refreshing beverage pairing, consider a crisp white wine or a tall glass of iced tea.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg