One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the bold, spicy flavors of One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta to liven up your dinner table. This creamy, comforting dish is packed with tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a flavorful Cajun kick, all in one pot for minimal cleanup.

I discovered this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. The combination of pantry staples and vibrant seasonings has made it a favorite in our house, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this simple yet show-stopping dish. Whether you're a fan of spicy comfort food or just need a reliable dinner idea, this pasta checks all the boxes.

First and foremost, it's easy and quick to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you'll have a restaurant-quality meal that feels like it took hours to perfect. Perfect for weeknights when time is precious!

The one-pot method is a true lifesaver. Forget about juggling multiple pans or facing a mountain of dishes—this recipe keeps it all simple while delivering maximum flavor.

Speaking of flavor, the bold Cajun seasoning brings a smoky, spicy depth to the dish. Combined with creamy sauce and tender chicken, every bite is packed with a satisfying mix of textures and tastes.

Finally, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're cooking for picky eaters or spice lovers, you can easily adjust the heat level and ingredients to suit everyone at the table.

Ingredients Notes

This One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta relies on a handful of simple yet powerful ingredients. Let’s break them down:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best here. They're easy to cut into bite-sized pieces and cook quickly, making them perfect for this recipe.
• Cajun seasoning: The heart of the dish! Use your favorite store-bought blend or make your own with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and herbs. Feel free to adjust the heat level to your liking.
• Pasta: Short shapes like penne or rigatoni are ideal. Their ridges help hold onto the creamy sauce, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
• Heavy cream and chicken broth: These form the base of the sauce. The cream adds richness, while the broth provides depth and keeps the dish from being too heavy.
• Bell peppers and onions: These colorful vegetables add a hint of sweetness and a satisfying crunch, balancing the spice from the Cajun seasoning.
• Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan at the end adds the perfect finishing touch of salty, nutty flavor.

No special equipment is needed—just a large pot or deep skillet with a lid.

How to Make This One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

Cooking this dish is as easy as 1-2-3. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure success:

1. Prep the chicken and vegetables. Dice your chicken into bite-sized pieces and season generously with Cajun seasoning. Slice your bell peppers and onions into thin strips.
2. Cook the chicken. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they're golden-brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables. In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes, scraping up any flavorful bits left behind by the chicken.
4. Add the pasta and liquids. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir in the uncooked pasta. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
5. Combine and finish. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir well to combine. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning to taste. Let the dish sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? No problem! This dish stores beautifully for later enjoyment.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
• Freezer: Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring back its creamy consistency. Stir gently to avoid breaking the pasta.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe makes it a keeper in any home kitchen. Here are a few ideas to change it up:

• Protein swap: Replace chicken with shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a different twist.
• Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and double up on the veggies. Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach work beautifully.
• Spice level: If you’re cooking for those who prefer less heat, use a milder Cajun blend or reduce the amount of seasoning. For spice lovers, a dash of hot sauce is a welcome addition!
• Low-carb option: Substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter take on the dish.
• Cheese upgrade: Mix in some shredded mozzarella or pepper jack for an extra cheesy finish.

Don’t be afraid to get creative—this recipe is the perfect canvas for your culinary experiments.

One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a recipe you'll find yourself coming back to again and again. It’s comforting, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable, making it a true kitchen staple. So grab your pot and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!

Print