Name: One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb diced chicken (can substitute with shrimp or Andouille sausage); 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust salt and heat levels as preferred); 1 tsp smoked paprika (regular paprika can be substituted); 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat); 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing); 2 tbsp butter (enhances creaminess; add more if desired); 1 medium onion, chopped (yellow or sweet preferred); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup orzo pasta (main carbohydrate; other small pasta can be substituted); 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (makes the dish flavorful); 1 cup heavy cream (can substitute with half and half for a lighter version); 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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Introduction

This One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines the smoky spices of Cajun seasoning with comforting Alfredo textures. Perfect for a busy weeknight, it’s easy to prepare and packed with rich, satisfying tastes.

A black bowl filled with creamy orzo pasta showing a rich beige color, mixed with small pieces of red tomatoes and green herbs throughout. On top, there are four seared chicken pieces with a golden-brown crust and black specks, scattered evenly. A silver fork lifts a spoonful of the creamy orzo, highlighting the smooth texture and mixed ingredients within the dish. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb diced chicken (can substitute with shrimp or Andouille sausage)
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust salt and heat to preference)
1 tsp smoked paprika (regular paprika as substitute)
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
1 medium onion, chopped (yellow or sweet preferred)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for lighter version)
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sear until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add orzo to the skillet, stirring to combine with onions and garlic. Toast for 1-2 minutes until the orzo is slightly golden.
Step 4: Pour in chicken broth and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is al dente.
Step 5: Remove from heat and gradually stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Step 6: Return the chicken to the skillet, warming it through for a minute. Adjust seasoning as needed and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

Try substituting the chicken with shrimp or Andouille sausage for a different twist.
Use half and half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Add extra Parmesan on top when serving for more cheesy flavor.
If you like more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.

How to Serve

A black bowl filled with a creamy orzo pasta dish, with four golden brown, grilled chicken pieces on top, each piece showing grill marks and sprinkled with chopped green herbs. The creamy orzo pasta is mixed with small red pieces, possibly roasted peppers or tomatoes, and finely chopped green herbs, giving a mix of smooth, light orange sauce with bits of color throughout. A shiny silver spoon is scooping up some of the orzo pasta from the right side of the bowl. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells work well as substitutes, but cooking times may vary slightly.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level can be adjusted by changing the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes. You can reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder dish.