Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe | One Pot Cajun Pasta

If you crave a meal that brings a little spice and a whole lot of comfort, you’re in for a treat! This One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the ultimate quick and easy dinner recipe that combines tender, spiced chicken with a creamy, flavorful sauce. All you need is one pot and 30 minutes to get this weeknight dinner on the table.

Why You'll Love This Perfect Pasta Dish

• Quick & Easy. Made in just one pot, this dish comes together in 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bold Flavors. Cajun spices bring a vibrant and delicious heat to the dish, balanced beautifully by the creamy sauce.
• Hearty & Satisfying. With pasta, chicken, and a rich sauce, this meal is sure to keep everyone full and happy.
• Minimal Cleanup. Cooking everything in one pot means fewer dishes to wash, so you can spend more time relaxing.

Imagine the aroma of sizzling chicken, the savory bite of Cajun seasoning, and the rich, creamy sauce coating every strand of pasta. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, ready to dig in!

What Does Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Taste Like?

Cajun Chicken Pasta is a popular dish that features chicken seasoned with Cajun spices, cooked with pasta, and tossed in a creamy sauce. The flavors are rich and savory, with a hint of heat from the Cajun seasoning, making it a beloved recipe in many households.

The beauty of this dish is that it’s versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level or add in your favorite veggies to customize it to your liking.

Is It Spicy?

Yes, Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta typically has a bit of a kick to it due to the Cajun seasoning, which often includes spices like cayenne pepper, paprika, and black pepper. However, the level of spiciness can vary depending on the brand or amount of Cajun seasoning used.

The creaminess of the sauce helps balance and mellow out the heat, making it flavorful without being overwhelmingly spicy. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Chicken Breasts– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Cajun Seasoning– You can use store-bought or make your own blend for a personalized flavor.
• Olive Oil– For sautéing the chicken and adding a touch of richness.
• Pasta– Penne, fettuccine, or any pasta shape you prefer.
• Heavy Cream– The base of the creamy sauce.
• Chicken Broth– Adds flavor to the sauce and helps cook the pasta.
• Parmesan Cheese– For that rich, cheesy finish.
• Garlic– Freshly minced for an aromatic touch.
• Onion– Diced onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Bell Peppers– Use red and green for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Salt & Pepper– To taste.
• Fresh Parsley– For garnish and a burst of freshness.

How To Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

1. Season the Chicken. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning and add them to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables. In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion and bell peppers until they are softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
3. Add Pasta and Liquids. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then add the pasta. Stir well to ensure the pasta is covered in the liquid. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
4. Stir in the Chicken and Cheese. Once the pasta is cooked, add the cooked chicken back to the pot. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish and Serve. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips And Tricks

Cooking One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is straightforward, but these tips can make it even better:

• Adjust the Spice Level. If you prefer a milder dish, use less Cajun seasoning. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Use Fresh Ingredients. Fresh garlic, onion, and bell peppers enhance the flavor of the dish significantly.
• Stir the Pasta. Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are some delicious variations:

• Vegetarian Version- Swap the chicken for mushrooms or extra veggies like zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Seafood Twist- Add shrimp instead of chicken. Just cook the shrimp until pink and set aside before adding it back at the end.
• Extra Creamy- For an even creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of cream cheese or a bit of Greek yogurt before serving.

What To Eat With Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This dish is satisfying on its own, but here are some sides that pair perfectly:

• Garlic Bread- Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Salad- A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables- Serve alongside for extra nutrients and flavor.

How Long Does It Last?

Leftover Cajun Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes, you can freeze Cajun Chicken Pasta for up to 2-3 months. Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw the pasta overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Note that the sauce may separate slightly, but stirring in a bit of cream while reheating can help bring it back together.

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