If you are craving a rich and flavorful meal that comes together with minimal fuss, this One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is absolutely a must-try. Imagine tender chicken bursting with zesty Cajun spices, mingling perfectly with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a luscious cream and Parmesan sauce that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this dish delivers a vibrant taste of Cajun cuisine without piling on the cleanup, making it a stand-out favorite you’ll return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is a simple yet powerful player, working together to build the creamy texture, spicy kick, and colorful appeal that make this dish shine. From the earthy olive oil to the fiery Cajun seasoning, every component adds its own unique layer of flavor and character.
- Olive oil: Provides a fragrant base to sear the chicken and vegetables for depth of flavor.
- Boneless skinless chicken breast: Offers tender protein that soaks up the seasoning perfectly.
- Cajun seasoning: Brings the signature bold, smoky, and spicy notes that define this dish.
- Small onion: Adds sweetness and texture when sautéed gently.
- Red bell pepper: Infuses a splash of vibrant color and mild sweetness.
- Garlic cloves: Delivers aromatic warmth that complements the spices beautifully.
- Chicken broth: Forms the flavorful cooking liquid for the pasta, enriching the entire dish.
- Penne pasta: Holds sauce well with its tubular shape and cooks right in the pot for convenience.
- Heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and indulgent.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a nutty, salty finish that ties all the flavors together.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance the overall taste.
- Chopped parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous brightness and a pop of green color as a garnish.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Cajun-Spiced Chicken
Begin by tossing the chicken pieces evenly in Cajun seasoning for that unmistakable bold flavor. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or Dutch oven, then add the chicken and sear it until beautifully browned and cooked through—this usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes. The caramelization you develop here is crucial for a rich taste, so don’t rush this step. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside for the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add diced onion and sliced red bell pepper. Let them sweat and soften for about 3 to 4 minutes, absorbing all those flavorful bits left behind by the chicken. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds more—keeping it brief to avoid any bitterness while enhancing the dish’s aroma.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta in Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the uncooked penne pasta. Bring it all to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. This one-pot method allows the pasta to soak up the broth’s seasoning as it cooks for 10 to 12 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Now comes the luscious part—stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and the cooked chicken. Mix everything well and let it simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. This step helps the sauce thicken, achieving that signature creamy texture that clings to every strand and piece of chicken.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Garnish
Give your dish a final taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch more Cajun seasoning if you like a little extra heat. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for freshness and serve it piping hot.
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley add a vibrant green contrast that livens up the plate visually and with a subtle herbaceous note. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a light drizzle of olive oil can also boost the flavors and deck out the serving.
Side Dishes
This creamy, spicy pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. Consider a cool garden salad or some steamed green beans to bring brightness and balance to the meal. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are perfect to mop up the delicious sauce and complete the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style presentation, serve the pasta straight from the skillet or Dutch oven placed in the center of the table. If entertaining, you might plate individual servings garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan, perhaps alongside a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon to cleanse the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure the dish has cooled to room temperature before storing to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the pasta in meal-sized portions. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. When frozen properly, it will keep well for about 2 to 3 months without losing too much creaminess.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge if possible. Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy consistency if needed. Microwave reheating works too, just be sure to stir halfway through for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal because it holds sauce well, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even bowtie pasta. Just remember to adjust cooking time slightly depending on the pasta shape and size.
How spicy is the dish with just 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning?
This amount provides a nice mild-to-medium heat level that’s friendly for most palates. If you love a good kick, feel free to add more seasoning or a dash of cayenne pepper to bring up the spice.
Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?
Using half-and-half or whole milk is possible, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich or creamy. To help thicken it, you might consider adding a small cornstarch slurry, but heavy cream really gives the best indulgent texture.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! Despite its bold Cajun flavors, this recipe can be adjusted easily for kids by reducing the seasoning or leaving out the extra spicy additions. The creamy sauce and tender chicken appeal to younger taste buds too.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
For a vegetarian version, swap chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms and use vegetable broth. For vegan, choose plant-based cream alternatives and vegan Parmesan substitutes. Just keep in mind it won’t have quite the same richness, but still delicious.
Final Thoughts
I can confidently say this One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe holds a special place in my heart and kitchen. It’s a rare find that combines quick, one-pot convenience with deep, soulful flavors that satisfy every craving. If you want to impress with minimal effort, this dish is your go-to for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
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One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delicious and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken pieces seasoned with Cajun spices are cooked with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and garlic before simmering with penne pasta in a rich, creamy sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. This flavorful dish combines spicy Cajun flair with creamy indulgence, all made conveniently in one pot for easy cleanup and fast preparation.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids & Dairy
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pantry Items & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare and Season Chicken: Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, ensuring they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- Sear Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, add the diced onion and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and stir in the 8 ounces of uncooked penne pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Pasta: Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish Sauce and Combine: Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and the cooked chicken. Mix well and simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and everything is heated through.
- Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra Cajun seasoning to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute andouille sausage or shrimp for the chicken to vary the protein.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce while cooking.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
