One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
This One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a bold, creamy, and easy weeknight meal packed with spicy Cajun flavors and tender chicken all in one pot!
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing the chicken and veggies
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 bell pepper diced, red or green works well
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- salt and pepper to taste
- chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Prep and Sauté the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on all sides but not fully cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and the peppers soften, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Spice It Up
- Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper over the vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly and awaken the spices’ aromas.
Add Liquids and Pasta
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the penne pasta and halved cherry tomatoes, then return the chicken to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover.
Simmer and Stir
- Let everything simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 12-15 minutes. The sauce should be creamy and cling to the pasta and chicken.
Final Seasoning and Serve
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, spicy comfort of your homemade One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta.
Equipment
- Large deep skillet or wide pot
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Sharp knife & cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently with added broth or cream if needed.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free broth.
- Customize this dish seasonally by adding vegetables like asparagus, peas, mushrooms, or kale depending on the time of year.
