One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo (Printable Format)

Spicy Cajun chicken, tender orzo, and creamy Parmesan sauce unite in a flavorful one-pan meal.

# Needed Ingredients:

→ Main

01 - 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
02 - 1 cup orzo pasta
03 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
07 - 1 cup heavy cream
08 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
10 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
12 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika

→ Optional Additions

13 - 1 cup baby spinach or diced bell peppers
14 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Sauté until the chicken develops a golden exterior and is cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
02 - In the same pot, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant without browning.
03 - Add orzo pasta to the pot and stir for 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted and coated.
04 - Pour in chicken broth, bringing to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed, about 7–9 minutes.
05 - Reduce heat to low. Incorporate heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the mixture becomes silky and well blended.
06 - Return cooked chicken along with any accumulated juices to the pot. Mix thoroughly. Fold in spinach or bell peppers if using. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until vegetables are just wilted and everything is heated through.
07 - Remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot.

# Supplementary Details:

01 - Add vegetables during the final simmer to maintain color and texture.
02 - Adjust Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.