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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
PrintOne Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
This One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and creamy dish made with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and bold Cajun spices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 small onion (sliced)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley and red chili flakes
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken, sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, and cook until browned.
- Stir in garlic, bell pepper, and onion; sauté until vegetables soften.
- Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and penne pasta. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is cooked.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley and chili flakes if desired.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning.
- Use any pasta shape you prefer, but penne works best for this recipe.
- For extra flavor, add cooked sausage or shrimp alongside the chicken.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
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