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One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo

One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo for Cozy Weeknight Bliss

Enjoy a delightful One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo, perfect for busy weeknights with a comforting blend of Italian and Cajun flavors.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Cajun, Italian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast (1-inch diced) Substitute with shrimp or Andouille sausage for variation.
For the Flavor Base
  • 1-2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Adjust to taste for spice level.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil & Butter Use margarine for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 medium Onion (finely chopped) Shallots make a great substitute.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Feel free to use garlic powder if needed.
For the Pasta
  • 1 cup Orzo (dry) Can replace with other small pasta shapes or quinoa.
  • 3 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Vegetable broth is a vegetarian alternative.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Mix milk and flour for a lighter version.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) Pecorino Romano works beautifully as a substitute.
  • to taste Smoked Paprika & Red Pepper Flakes Adjust according to spice preference.
For Garnish
  • Fresh Parsley Enhances presentation; swap for chives or omit if preferred.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Season the diced chicken breast with Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  2. Lower the heat and add a little more butter. Sauté the finely chopped onion for about 3 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the dry orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until it becomes slightly opaque.
  4. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and any remaining Cajun seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes until orzo is al dente.
  5. Once the orzo is cooked, remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
  6. Return the seared chicken to the skillet and gently stir everything together until warmed through. Adjust seasonings as desired and serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Perfect for busy weeknights and customizable with your preferred proteins and vegetables.

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