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One Pan Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo

One Pan Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo: Easy Family Favorite

Discover the delightful flavors of One Pan Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo, a creamy and quick meal perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 680
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Cajun Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning Blend Add smoky, spicy flavor; substitute with store-bought if short on time.
Chicken and Sauce
  • 1 lb Thin Chicken Breast Can substitute with turkey breast for a leaner option.
  • 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil Used for cooking chicken to enhance flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Can be replaced with margarine for a lighter version.
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh garlic is preferred for the best taste.
  • 1.5 cups Milk Use whole milk for a richer flavor or almond milk for dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 cup Orzo, uncooked The main carbohydrate; other small pasta shapes can be substituted.
  • ¼ cup Heavy Cream Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
  • ¾ cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated Nutritional yeast can be used as a vegan alternative.
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped For garnish and fresh flavor contrast.

Equipment

  • sauté pan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Cajun Seasoning: Combine the Cajun seasoning ingredients to create your homemade blend. Stir to ensure spices are evenly mixed, and set aside.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Coat thin chicken breasts with olive oil and half of the prepared Cajun seasoning. Marinate for about 30 minutes.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a sauté pan over medium heat, add olive oil, and cook the marinated chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and let rest.
  4. Sauté the Garlic: In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add Liquids and Orzo: Pour in milk and chicken broth, stir well, add uncooked orzo and adjust seasoning. Bring to a vigorous boil.
  6. Cook the Orzo: Lower heat, simmer, and cook orzo for about 20 minutes, adding water in ½ cup increments as needed to keep it saucy.
  7. Incorporate the Chicken: Cut rested chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the pan. Stir gently to combine.
  8. Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing continuously until creamy.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 680kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 36gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 840mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 330mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently and add a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess.

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