Description
A creamy and flavorful one-pot dish that combines Cajun chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and tender orzo pasta for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb Chicken (Diced)
- 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 medium Onion (Chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic (Minced)
- 1 cup Orzo Pasta
- 2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley (Chopped)
Instructions
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken seasoned with Cajun spice and smoked paprika. Sear it until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Build the Base: In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, allowing them to soften and become fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the Orzo: Pour in the orzo, stirring to coat it in the butter and toasting it slightly for enhanced flavor. Then, add the chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer Until Ready: Once the broth simmers, return the chicken to the skillet. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed the liquid.
- Cream It Up: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing the mixture to come together into a rich, creamy delight. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.
- Final Seasoning: Adjust seasonings as needed, adding red pepper flakes for extra heat if desired. Finish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
Notes
Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare chicken and chop vegetables in advance, saving you time during busy weeknights. Cooking Alternatives: An Instant Pot or air fryer can be used for the chicken. Customize by adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg