Description
Warm, creamy, and bright with a Cajun kick, this one-pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo is a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 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 grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Season 1 lb diced chicken with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Add to the pot and sauté until golden, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a bowl and set aside.
- Add 1 cup diced onions and 2 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Cook until fragrant and translucent, about 2–3 minutes. Stir in the optional bell pepper and cook for 1–2 more minutes.
- Pour in 1.5 cups orzo, 4 cups chicken broth, and 1 cup heavy cream. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir the cooked chicken back into the pot along with 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce turns creamy. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.
Notes
For a lighter version, swap half-and-half for heavy cream. For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free orzo or small rice-shaped pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun