Description
Get ready to indulge in a delectable one-pot wonder with our “One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo” recipe! This dish combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the irresistible creaminess of Alfredo sauce, all nestled in a bed of tender orzo pasta. It’s a weeknight meal that’s sure to impress, with its perfect balance of spice, richness, and comfort.
Ingredients
- 1/2 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1–2 cup water, as needed
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Make the Cajun Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine all the Cajun seasoning ingredients and mix well.
- Marinate the Chicken: Coat the cubed chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning blend. Let it sit for 30 minutes, if time allows.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large, high-rimmed pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5 minutes per side, until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside, covered with foil.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same pan, melt the 2 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Cook the Orzo: Pour in the milk and chicken broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the uncooked orzo and Cajun seasoning to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Stir often and add water as needed, about 1/2 cup at a time, until the orzo is tender and creamy, about 20 minutes.
- Combine: Cut the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it back to the orzo. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Serve: Serve the One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
Notes
To ensure your “One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo” is a resounding success, consider these helpful tips:
– Marinate the chicken in the Cajun seasoning for at least 30 minutes to infuse it with maximum flavor.
– Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your desired level of spice. Start with a smaller amount and gradually increase it to find your perfect balance.
– Stir the orzo frequently during the cooking process to prevent sticking and ensure an even, creamy texture.
– Add water as needed to achieve the desired consistency for the orzo. The amount may vary depending on the brand and cooking method.
– For a heartier meal, consider adding sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 27
- Saturated Fat: 15
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 46
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 35
- Cholesterol: 100