Comforting One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo in Just 30 Minutes Recipe

Introduction

This Comforting One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo is a flavorful and creamy dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without a lot of cleanup.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 cup diced onions (fresh is best)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 1.5 cups orzo pasta
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced chicken seasoned with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, then remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Step 2: In the same pot, add diced onions and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then stir in diced bell pepper if using.
3. Step 3: Add orzo pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Step 4: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
5. Step 5: Stir the cooked chicken and grated Parmesan cheese into the orzo until creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Step 6: Serve the dish warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sliced jalapeños along with the Cajun seasoning.
• Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce calories without sacrificing too much creaminess.
• Add a handful of spinach or kale at the end for a nutritious green boost.
• If you want a smokier flavor, try using smoked paprika in addition to Cajun seasoning.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, small shells, or ditalini work well. Cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.

Is this recipe spicy?

The dish has a mild to moderate heat level from the Cajun seasoning, but you can easily adjust the spice by adding more or less seasoning or including extra spicy ingredients like cayenne pepper.

Comforting One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo in Just 30 Minutes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 58 reviews

This comforting one-pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo combines tender diced chicken breast seasoned with Cajun spices, sautéed onions, garlic, and optional bell peppers, all simmered together with orzo pasta in a rich mixture of chicken broth and creamy Alfredo sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a hearty, flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Seasoning

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Vegetables

• 1 cup diced onions (fresh is best)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bell pepper, diced (optional)

Orzo and Sauce

• 1.5 cups orzo pasta
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Other

• 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the oil and sauté chicken: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add 1 lb of diced chicken breast seasoned with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove chicken: Take the browned chicken out of the pot and set aside, leaving the flavorful bits in the pot for added depth.
3. Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, add 1 cup diced onions and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Then stir in 1 cup diced bell pepper if using and cook briefly to soften.
4. Add orzo and liquids: Pour in 1.5 cups orzo pasta, 4 cups chicken broth, and 1 cup heavy cream. Stir gently and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Simmer the orzo: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Combine chicken and cheese: Stir the cooked chicken back into the pot along with 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve and garnish: Ladle the creamy Cajun chicken Alfredo orzo into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

• Enjoy this dish with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a delightful meal.
• Adjust Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
• Bell peppers are optional but add a nice sweetness and color.
• For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but expect a less thick sauce.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave.

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