Comforting One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo in Just 30 Minutes

Comforting One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo in Just 30 Minutes

Author: Arwa Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings Category: Chicken Recipes Cuisine: Cajun Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced)
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 cup diced onions (fresh is best)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup bell pepper (diced, optional)
  • 1.5 cups orzo pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Pepper (to taste)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
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Instructions

  1. Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering, then add the chicken for sautéing.
  2. Add 1 lb of diced chicken, seasoning it with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper, and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Remove the browned chicken and set aside, leaving flavorful bits in the pot.
  4. Add 1 cup of diced onions and 2 minced garlic cloves in the same pot. Cook until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Stir in 1 cup of diced bell pepper, if using, and sauté until onions are translucent.
  6. Mix in 1.5 cups of orzo pasta, 4 cups of chicken broth, and 1 cup of heavy cream, and bring to a gentle boil.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is tender.
  8. Stir in the cooked chicken and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined.
  9. Ladle the warm orzo mixture into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

  1. For a lighter finish, swap heavy cream for half and half but expect less richness. Add a splash more broth or cream if the sauce gets too thick when reheating.