Description
Warm, creamy, and spiked with Cajun heat, this one-pot Cajun chicken Alfredo orzo is a quick comfort food meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced bell pepper (optional)
- 1.5 cups orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the pot and oil: Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Season and brown chicken: Toss the diced chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add to the pot and sauté until golden, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30–60 seconds. Add bell pepper if using and sauté for 1–2 minutes.
- Add orzo and liquids: Stir in the orzo, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat, cover the pot, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is tender.
- Finish the dish: Return the cooked chicken and stir in the Parmesan until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- Serve: Spoon into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. If using gluten-free pasta, cooking time may vary. Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun