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The Ultimate Guide to One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo

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One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo is a creamy, spicy, and comforting dish that brings bold Cajun flavor and minimal cleanup together in a single skillet. With juicy chicken, tender orzo, and a rich Alfredo-style sauce, it’s a flavorful and easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning. Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onion (if using) until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
  3. Add orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes or until orzo is tender and sauce is thickened.
  6. Stir in Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Slice cooked chicken and return it to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood variation.
  • Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt to lighten it up.
  • Stir in vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.
  • Add extra Cajun seasoning or cayenne for more heat.
  • Homemade Cajun seasoning can be made with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper.

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