Print

One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 108 reviews

This One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender Cajun-spiced chicken, sautéed bell peppers, and spinach with cheesy Parmesan Alfredo sauce and tender orzo pasta. Cooked all in one pot for ease and minimal cleanup, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both comforting and packed with bold Cajun flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Vegetables

  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Orzo and Sauce

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and sprinkle Cajun seasoning evenly on both sides to coat thoroughly.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat a large pot or skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
  3. Sauté peppers and garlic: Add the remaining olive oil to the same pot if needed. Toss in the chopped bell peppers and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Toast the orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta with the vegetables and coat it well in the mixture, letting it toast lightly for about a minute.
  5. Cook the orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  6. Create the Alfredo sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth. Adjust seasoning with additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
  7. Finish with chicken and spinach: Slice the cooked chicken breasts and nestle them back into the pot. Add the fresh spinach and stir until wilted. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use any color bell peppers for a mix of flavors and colors.
  • You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option, though the sauce will be less rich.
  • For a spicier kick, add extra Cajun seasoning when tossing the orzo.
  • If you don’t have fresh spinach, baby kale or arugula can work as alternatives.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 2-3 days; reheat gently to avoid breaking the sauce.

Keywords: One Pot, Cajun Chicken, Alfredo, Orzo, Creamy Pasta, Easy Dinner, Weeknight Meal

Find it online: https://famdishes.com/one-pot-cajun-chicken-alfredo-orzo-recipe/