Print

Creamy One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

creamy one-pot cajun chicken pasta - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy creamy Cajun chicken pasta made in one pot, perfect for cozy dinners with a mild spicy kick and rich cheesy sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (blend of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (red or green)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion (yellow or white)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with about 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, coating evenly. Set aside while you chop the veggies.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown but not fully cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add diced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Pour in the uncooked pasta and 3 cups chicken broth. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer. Cover with a lid and cook for about 12 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking. The pasta should absorb most of the liquid but remain tender.
  5. Nestle the browned chicken pieces back into the pan. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth. Then add the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir constantly until the sauce is thick and glossy, about 3–4 minutes.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning if needed. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top.
  7. Serve immediately.

Notes

If sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen before serving. Cook chicken in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan. Use room temperature chicken for even cooking. Stir pasta gently halfway through simmer to prevent sticking. Add cheeses on low heat to avoid curdling. Adjust Cajun seasoning gradually to control spice level.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta, one-pot pasta, creamy pasta, easy dinner, Cajun seasoning, comfort food, quick dinner

Find it online: https://lirafood.com/creamy-one-pot-cajun-chicken-pasta-recipe-easy-cozy-dinner-idea/