Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo One-Pot Dinner (Print Version)
Flavorful Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo is a simple one-pot dinner. Creamy, spicy, and satisfying, this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Cajun
# Ingredients:
→ The Cajun Kick & Protein
01 -
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 -
2 tbsp olive oil
03 -
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
04 -
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
05 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
→ Aromatic Foundation
06 -
1/2 yellow onion, diced
07 -
1 red bell pepper, diced
08 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
→ Creamy Orzo Core
09 -
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
10 -
3 cups chicken broth
11 -
1 cup heavy cream
12 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Fresh Finish
13 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
In a medium bowl, toss 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces) with 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This is the first step to your delicious Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo: Easy One-Pot Dinner.
02 -
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides and mostly cooked through. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
03 -
To the same pot, add the 1/2 diced yellow onion and 1 diced red bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in 3 minced cloves garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
04 -
Return the chicken to the pot. Add 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta, 3 cups chicken broth, and 1 cup heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
05 -
Remove the pot from heat. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed for your perfect Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo: Easy One-Pot Dinner.
06 -
Let the Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo: Easy One-Pot Dinner rest for a few minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley before serving warm. Enjoy this easy one-pot meal!
# Notes:
01 -
For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. You can add canned cannellini beans or chickpeas for protein.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
03 -
Feel free to adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper, or adding a dash of hot sauce at the end.
04 -
Serve this hearty dish with a simple green salad and some crusty garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large Dutch oven or pot (at least 4-quart)
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 730 kcal
Total Fat: 32 g
Total Carbohydrate: 61 g
Protein: 41 g