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One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a rich and flavorful dinner made with tender chicken, pasta, Cajun spices, and a smooth, creamy sauce. Everything cooks in one pot, making it an easy and satisfying weeknight meal with minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American, cajun, southern
Servings 4 people
Calories 620 kcal

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet, Dutch oven, or wide pot
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Tongs
  • Cheese grater, optional

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Pasta

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning divided
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley optional

Optional Toppings

  • Extra Parmesan cheese
  • Sliced green onions
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Fresh parsley

Instructions
 

Step 1: Season the Chicken

  • Place the chicken pieces in a bowl.
  • Add 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning and toss until the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
  • Add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring as needed, until browned and cooked through.
  • Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

  • Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the same pot.
  • Add the onion and bell peppers. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until they start to soften.
  • Stir in the garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Liquid

  • Add the dry pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, remaining 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  • Stir well, making sure the pasta is mostly covered by the liquid.

Step 5: Simmer the Pasta

  • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  • Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes so the pasta does not stick.
  • Cook until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 6: Add Chicken and Cheese

  • Return the cooked chicken to the pot.
  • Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If the sauce looks too thick, add a small splash of broth or cream.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

  • Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  • Top with parsley, extra Parmesan, green onions, or red pepper flakes. Serve warm.
Keyword One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta