Irresistible One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe for Busy Nights

Whipping up a delightful one pot Cajun chicken pasta can turn an ordinary evening into a flavor-packed adventure.

Spices dance across tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles, creating a meal that speaks directly to comfort and excitement.

Bold Cajun seasonings infuse every bite with a zesty kick that makes taste buds sing.

Southern culinary magic transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary, blending creamy textures with robust flavors.

Minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction make this recipe a weeknight hero for busy home cooks.

We love how quickly this dish comes together, promising a restaurant-quality experience right in your kitchen.

You’ll find yourself craving these vibrant, soul-warming flavors again and again.

Creative Takes On Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Vegetarian Pasta Swap: Replace chicken with plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas, using the same Cajun seasoning for a zesty vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute penne with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa to accommodate gluten-sensitive diners.
• Spicy Seafood Remix: Swap chicken for shrimp or crawfish, maintaining the Cajun flavor profile while adding a coastal Louisiana touch.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta, keeping the creamy sauce and Cajun spices for a lighter meal.

Serving Suggestions For Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Spicy Dinner Party Delight: Serve this creamy Cajun chicken pasta as a vibrant main course for gatherings, letting guests enjoy the bold flavors and hearty texture.
• Lunch Meal Prep Magic: Portion the pasta into containers for a delicious and convenient work or school lunch that reheats perfectly and keeps you satisfied throughout the day.
• Southwestern Twist: Top the pasta with crispy tortilla strips, extra Parmesan cheese, and a dollop of sour cream to add a zesty Mexican-inspired flair to the classic Cajun dish.
• Quick Family Favorite: Create a kid-friendly version by reducing the Cajun seasoning and letting family members customize their plates with additional toppings like green onions or crispy bacon bits.

Storing One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Safely

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Store the pasta in the refrigerator for 3-4 days maximum, keeping the dish sealed tightly to preserve its flavors and texture.
• Avoid freezing this pasta dish as cream-based sauces tend to separate and lose their smooth consistency when thawed.
• Reheat single servings in the microwave by adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture, stirring every 30 seconds until heated thoroughly and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.

FAQs

• What is Cajun seasoning?

A blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme that gives dishes a spicy, robust flavor typical of Louisiana cuisine.

• Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Yes, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. You can also add less cayenne pepper to decrease the heat level.

• Is this dish gluten-free?

No, the recipe uses regular penne pasta. To make it gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or chickpea flour.

• What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they cook quickly and absorb the Cajun seasoning well. Chicken thighs can also work for more flavor.

One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Full Of Flavor

• Spice Up Your Dinner: Dive into a flavor-packed Cajun chicken pasta that brings the heat and excitement of Louisiana cuisine right to your kitchen.
• Simplify Cooking: Enjoy a one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup and maximizes taste, perfect for busy home cooks craving a delicious meal without extensive preparation.
• Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by adjusting spice levels, swapping proteins, or adding extra vegetables to make it your own unique culinary creation.
• Family-Friendly Feast: Combine crowd-pleasing ingredients like chicken, pasta, and creamy sauce that appeal to both adults and kids, making mealtime a delightful experience for everyone.

Ingredients For One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Chicken: The primary protein source that adds heartiness and flavor to the pasta dish.

• Cajun Seasoning, Paprika, Garlic Powder: A blend of spices that provides a bold and zesty Cajun-style flavor profile to the chicken.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings for enhancing and balancing the overall taste of the dish.

• Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Green Bell Pepper: Fresh vegetables that add sweetness, color, and nutritional value to the pasta.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that brings depth and richness to the sauce.

• Penne Pasta: Classic pasta shape that captures the creamy sauce and provides a satisfying texture.
• Chicken Broth, Heavy Cream: Liquid base that creates a smooth and luxurious sauce for the pasta.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.

• Fresh Parsley: Bright herb that adds a fresh finish and visual appeal to the dish.

• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing chicken and vegetables, adding a subtle flavor and preventing sticking.

How To Prepare One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sear Spicy Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken seasoned with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder.

Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Transfer chicken to a separate plate.

Step 2: Saute Colorful Vegetables

• Onions
• Red bell peppers
• Green bell peppers

Saute until vegetables become soft and slightly translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release aromatic flavors.

Step 3: Create Creamy Pasta Base

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir ingredients thoroughly.

Add penne pasta to the pot. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low simmer.

Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta reaches perfect tenderness.

Step 4: Combine and Melt Cheese

Return cooked chicken to the pot.

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Stir until cheese melts completely, creating a rich and creamy sauce that coats every pasta piece.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the vibrant Cajun flavors.

Tips To Boost Cajun Chicken Pasta Flavor

• Swap regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free options for healthier alternatives, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish. Adjust Cajun seasoning levels to control spiciness, making it mild or extra hot according to personal preference. Use homemade Cajun seasoning for a fresher, more customized flavor profile that elevates the entire meal. Select firm chicken breasts to prevent overcooking and maintain tender, juicy meat during the cooking process. Consider adding extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for increased nutrition and color variety in the one-pot meal.

Creamy One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 18 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy one pot cajun chicken pasta brings Southern comfort to dinner tables with bold, spicy flavors. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, offering you a quick and satisfying meal that celebrates Louisiana’s culinary spirit.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Pasta and Seasonings:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta
• 3 cups (720 milliliters) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Sear the chicken in a large pot over medium heat with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-6 minutes. Transfer to a separate plate.
2. In the same pot, sauté diced onions and bell peppers until they become translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 60 seconds.
3. Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the vegetable mixture, creating a rich base. Add penne pasta and stir to combine, ensuring pasta is submerged in liquid.
4. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring periodically to prevent pasta from sticking.
5. Once pasta reaches al dente consistency, reintroduce the cooked chicken to the pot. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and gently fold until cheese melts and creates a smooth, creamy sauce.
6. Taste and fine-tune seasoning with salt and black pepper. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish. Serve immediately while hot and bubbling.

Notes

• Swap out regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options to accommodate dietary restrictions and add extra nutrition.
• Reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version of the dish.
• Add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini to boost the nutritional value and create more vibrant color in the pasta.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth and control the salt to make the recipe more heart-healthy and suitable for those watching sodium intake.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 571 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 720 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 44 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg