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One Pan Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo

One Pan Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo is a creamy, spicy one-skillet meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Cajun-inspired

Ingredients
  

Cajun Seasoning Blend

  • 1/2 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

Cajun Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts thin cutlets or sliced breasts
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil plus more if needed

Cajun Alfredo Orzo

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1.5 cups milk 2% works well
  • 1 cup chicken broth or water
  • 1 –2 cups water as needed
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley roughly chopped

Instructions
 

Step 1 – Prepare the Cajun Seasoning

  • In a small bowl, combine all Cajun seasoning ingredients. Mix well and set aside.

Step 2 – Marinate the Chicken

  • In a bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil and about 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning blend (or enough to coat evenly). Let it marinate for 30 minutes for deeper flavor.

Step 3 – Cook the Chicken

  • Heat a large high-rimmed sauté pan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F).
  • Remove from the pan and set aside. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

Step 4 – Start the Alfredo Orzo

  • In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 5 – Cook the Orzo

  • Pour in the milk and chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in uncooked orzo and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning to taste.
  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Add water gradually (about 1/2 cup at a time) as needed to keep the mixture creamy and saucy.
  • Cook for about 18–20 minutes, until orzo is tender and creamy.

Step 6 – Combine Everything

  • Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pan. Stir to combine.

Step 7 – Finish the Sauce

  • Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 8 – Serve

  • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
  • This One Pan Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo is best enjoyed hot and creamy.

Notes

  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded.