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My Go-To Weeknight Meal: Best One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo taken with iphone 15 pro max --iw 2 --ar 4:5 --v 6.0 --raw

February 2, 2026

One Pan Cajun-Inspired Tofu Alfredo and Orzo is where cozy meets craveable! Crispy Cajun-spiced tofu gets folded into creamy vegan Alfredo-style orzo with tender broccoli, garlic, and just the right amount of heat. Made with simple, affordable ingredients. Best of all, cleanup is minimal!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Pressure cooker
  • Skillet Large

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients

  • 1 16-ounce block super firm tofu cubed
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning divided
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegan butter
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 6 cloves fresh minced garlic
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 ½ cups vegan chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup vegan heavy cream
  • ½ cup vegan parmesan plus more for garnish (optional)
  • 4 cups diced broccoli florets
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). You’re gonna wanna have that set early so it’s ready when your tofu is golden.
  • Toss cubed tofu with cornstarch and 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning until all pieces are coated just right.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your tofu and cook for about 8-10 minutes until each side is golden brown and crispy. Don't rush this step, it’s key for texture.
  • Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until onion looks translucent and that garlic smell fills your kitchen with warmth.
  • Stir in uncooked orzo, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and the rest of the Cajun seasoning. Coat the orzo so it starts soaking up those spices real good.
  • Pour in 3 cups of vegetable broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer until orzo is tender, around 15 minutes.
  • Stir in your vegan butter until melted and blended well into the pasta and veggies, giving it that creamy, luscious finish.
  • Serve hot topped with vegan parmesan and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. If you like, add a bit more Cajun for extra kick before digging in.

Notes

Make sure your tofu is super firm so it holds up nice while cooking. Cornstarch gives it that crispy edge when browning. The Cajun seasoning brings all the heat you wanna taste. Olive oil and vegan butter make the skillet sing with flavor and creaminess. Fresh garlic and onion add that cozy base you need for this comfort food feel. The orzo soaks up all that broth and cream making it creamy but light. Broccoli adds a fresh snap right at the end. Don’t forget good salt and pepper for balance.