One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo
A quick and creamy one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, smoky Cajun spices, and orzo simmered in a silky Alfredo-style sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken, diced Substitute shrimp or Andouille sausage as desired.
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning Reduce or increase for milder or spicier.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika Use regular paprika if needed.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes Optional for extra heat.
- 2 tbsp olive oil For sautéing.
- 2 tbsp butter Adds creaminess; add more to taste.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Yellow or sweet.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta Small pastas like acini di pepe or Israeli couscous can work.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth Adjust salt if using regular broth.
- 1 cup heavy cream Half-and-half works for a lighter version.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated Preferred.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the diced chicken dry and toss with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and brown for 4–6 minutes until cooked through and caramelized. Remove chicken to a plate.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the pan; when melted, add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the orzo to the pan and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat with fat and pick up the browned bits.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8–10 minutes or until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in heavy cream and return to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese a little at a time, stirring until melted and a silky sauce forms.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and warm through for 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and let rest for a minute. Sprinkle chopped parsley and an extra grind of black pepper before serving.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cream and dairy-free Parmesan alternative. If salt is a concern, use low-sodium Cajun seasoning or reduce added salt and taste at the end.