One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo Recipe
One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo is a flavorful, creamy pasta dish that combines tender diced chicken with a rich Cajun-spiced Alfredo sauce and orzo pasta. This easy skillet meal brings bold Southern-inspired spices and comforting creamy textures together in just one pan for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken
- 1 lb diced chicken (can substitute with shrimp or Andouille sausage)
For the Spice Blend
- 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)
For the Base
- 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
For the Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta (main carbohydrate; other small pasta can be substituted)
For the Sauce
- 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
For the Garnish
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Sear until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Toast Orzo: Add orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine with the aromatics. Toast for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
- Simmer Pasta: Pour in low-sodium chicken broth and sprinkle in Cajun seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo is al dente.
- Add Cream Sauce: Off the heat, gradually stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Finish and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet and heat through for one minute. Adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Optional: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top when serving for added flavor.
- Can substitute chicken with shrimp or Andouille sausage for variety.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes according to preferred spice level.
- For a lighter version, use half and half instead of heavy cream.
Keywords: Cajun chicken alfredo orzo, one pot pasta, creamy orzo, Cajun seasoning, quick chicken dinner, stovetop pasta recipe
