One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe | Easy Spicy Dinner
I have to tell you about this recipe I stumbled upon one evening when I was tired of the same old dinners. Cajun chicken pasta, made in just one pot, turned into a dish I can’t get enough of. The flavors are bold, the creaminess is comforting, and it’s ridiculously easy to whip up.
I remember digging into my first plate, and the spicy, smoky taste of the Cajun seasoning was everything I needed to make my day better. If you’re looking to save time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor, you’ve got to try this — or you can also enjoy the Baked Southwestern Egg Rolls Recipe for a fun appetizer twist.
Cooking Time Breakdown
One of the best things about this recipe? It’s quick and hassle-free. Here’s how the time breaks down:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
Dice the veggies, season the chicken, and gather all your ingredients. The more organized you are, the faster this part goes. - Cook Time: 25 minutes
Everything cooks together in one pot, so you won’t spend extra time washing dishes later. - Total Time: 40 minutes
Pro Tip: Chop your vegetables and measure out spices ahead of time to make the process even smoother.
Essential Tools & Kitchen Equipment
Before you start cooking, make sure your kitchen is stocked with these essential tools:
- Large Non-Stick Pot (or Dutch oven)
A wide, deep pot ensures even cooking and enough space for stirring. - Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Perfect for sautéing and scraping every bit of flavor off the pan. - Sharp Knife
For cutting the chicken and chopping veggies with ease. - Cutting Board
Prevent mess by keeping everything prepped in one place. - Measuring Cups & Spoons
To get the Cajun seasoning and liquids just right. - Tongs
Useful for flipping the chicken as it browns.
Having the right tools makes cooking effortless and enjoyable.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you need to create this creamy, flavorful dish. Use easy-to-find ingredients or swap them out based on what you have at home.
For the Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (or boneless thighs for juicier results)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon salt and pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Veggies & Aromatics
- 1 medium bell pepper (red, green, or yellow), diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Optional: ½ cup diced tomatoes or a handful of spinach for added nutrients.
For the Sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium works best)
- 1 cup heavy cream (swap with coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne works great here)
Extra Flavor Boost
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (for extra spice)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Make One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta?
This recipe comes together in a few simple steps. Follow this guide for success every time.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Coat the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss them well so every piece is seasoned evenly.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until it’s golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
Quick Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot to ensure the chicken doesn’t steam.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
- Throw in the diced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant.
Pro Tip: Scrape up the brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pot; they add flavor!
Step 4: Combine the Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in paprika, red chili flakes, and any remaining Cajun seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
- Add the uncooked pasta to the pot. Stir well and ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and cook on low heat for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Finish with Chicken
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot and mix everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to warm it through.
Step 7: Add the Cheese
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir until the sauce is thick, creamy, and absolutely mouthwatering.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle chopped parsley before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
Dinner is ready! Serve it hot and creamy — and if you love flavorful stir-fries, you’ll also enjoy the Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Recipe for a quick weekday meal idea.
Serving Ideas
Wondering how to serve your Cajun chicken pasta? These ideas are tried and true:
- Add a side of garlic bread or crusty French baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Pair it with a green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, chili flakes, or freshly cracked black pepper for a flavor boost.
For a big family dinner, place the pot in the center of the table and serve it family-style.
Expert Tips for a Better Recipe
Take your dish from great to incredible with these tips:
- Double the Sauce
Love it extra saucy? Add an extra half cup of chicken broth and cream while cooking. - Make It Healthier
Use whole-grain pasta or swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a reduced-calorie option. - Try Veggie Additions
Add zucchini, mushrooms, or kale for a nutrient-packed twist. - Play With Proteins
Swap chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu to cater to different tastes. - Spice Level
For less heat, reduce Cajun seasoning or skip the chili flakes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s a rough breakdown of what to expect in terms of nutrition:
- Calories: ~520
- Protein: 36g
- Carbs: 42g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
Note: Values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Storing Leftovers
Cajun chicken pasta makes amazing leftovers! Follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerate
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. - Reheat
Add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.
Freezing Tip: While you can freeze it, the sauce may separate upon reheating. Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Final Thoughts
This one-pot Cajun chicken pasta recipe is a lifesaver for those nights when you crave something hearty yet easy. It’s spicy, creamy, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner, this dish never disappoints. Go ahead, try it out tonight, and you’ll see what I mean!
One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Coat the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss them well so every piece is seasoned evenly.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until it’s golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pot
- Throw in the diced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in paprika, red chili flakes, and any remaining Cajun seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the uncooked pasta to the pot. Stir well and ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and cook on low heat for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot and mix everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to warm it through.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir until the sauce is thick, creamy, and absolutely mouthwatering.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
Notes
- Double the Sauce: Love it extra saucy? Add an extra half cup of chicken broth and cream while cooking.
- Make It Healthier: Use whole-grain pasta or swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a reduced-calorie option.
- Try Veggie Additions: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or kale for a nutrient-packed twist.
- Play With Proteins: Swap chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu to cater to different tastes.
- Spice Level: For less heat, reduce Cajun seasoning or skip the chili flakes.
