The Ultimate One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe for Spicy Lovers

Whipping up a delightful Cajun chicken pasta can turn an ordinary evening into a flavor-packed adventure.

Spices dance across tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles, creating a meal that sparks conversation.

Comfort meets excitement in this single-pan wonder that simplifies your cooking process.

Creamy textures blend with bold louisiana-inspired seasonings, promising a culinary journey right from your kitchen.

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this recipe delivers unexpected satisfaction.

No complicated techniques or endless cleanup stand between you and a mouthwatering meal.

Grab your skillet and prepare to experience a dish that will become your new go-to comfort classic.

One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Appeal

• Conquer Dinner Quickly: Dive into a one-pot marvel that transforms meal preparation from stressful to super simple, letting you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying.
• Spice Up Family Meals: Packed with bold Cajun seasonings and vibrant bell peppers, this recipe turns an ordinary dinner into a flavor-packed adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Customize with Ease: Swap chicken for shrimp or add extra veggies to make this dish uniquely yours, perfect for adapting to different tastes and dietary preferences.
• No-Fuss Cleanup: With just one pot required, you'll breeze through washing dishes, making this recipe a lifesaver for busy home cooks who want delicious food without the kitchen chaos.

Cajun Chicken Pasta Key Ingredients

• Chicken: Lean protein that provides a hearty base for the Cajun-style pasta dish.

• Cajun Seasoning, Paprika, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Blend of spices that creates a bold, zesty flavor profile with a warm, spicy kick.

• Onion, Garlic, Bell Peppers: Fresh vegetables that add depth, sweetness, and a aromatic foundation to the dish.

• Penne Pasta: Classic tube-shaped pasta that holds sauce beautifully.
• Chicken Broth, Heavy Cream: Creamy liquids that create a rich, smooth sauce with a luxurious texture.

• Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, salty cheese that melts into a creamy coating.
• Fresh Parsley: Bright herb that adds a fresh, green note to the final dish.

• Olive Oil: Provides a smooth cooking base and subtle flavor to the dish.

How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sizzle the Chicken

• Cajun seasoning
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Cook the chicken until it develops a golden-brown crust and is thoroughly cooked.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

• Diced onion
• Minced garlic
• Chopped bell peppers

Sauté the vegetables until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream

Stir the liquid thoroughly to blend all ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Introduce penne pasta to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer.

Stir occasionally during the 12-15 minute cooking time until pasta reaches perfect tenderness and sauce thickens.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

Fold in parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts completely and creates a luxurious, creamy texture.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. Serve the pasta immediately while hot and steamy.

Tips for Perfect Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Adjust Cajun seasoning intensity by adding more or less to suit personal spice preferences.
• Swap penne with gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly version of the dish.
• Use low-fat milk or half-and-half as a lighter alternative to heavy cream for reduced calories.
• Toss in extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini to boost nutritional value and create more texture.
• For a dairy-free option, replace parmesan with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternative.

Flavor Options for Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Seafood Sensation: Replace chicken with shrimp or crawfish for a classic Cajun seafood pasta that brings Louisiana coastal flavors to your table.
• Vegetarian Veggie Delight: Swap chicken with plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meatless version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure Cajun seasoning is gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions while maintaining bold, spicy flavors.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, reducing carbohydrates while keeping the rich, creamy Cajun-style sauce intact.

Suggested Sides for Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Spicy Family Feast: Gather loved ones around this hearty one-pot wonder that brings Southern comfort directly to your dining table.
• Meal Prep Magic: Portion cooled pasta into containers for grab-and-go lunches that pack a flavor punch during busy workweeks.
• Picnic Perfect Portion: Transfer to a large insulated container for an outdoor meal that will impress friends with its rich, creamy Cajun goodness.
• Protein Power Bowl: Serve over fresh mixed greens for a low-carb twist that keeps the bold spicy profile while adding extra nutrition.

FAQs

• What is Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning is a spicy blend of herbs and spices typically including paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, oregano, and cayenne pepper, originating from Louisiana cuisine.

• Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild version to lower the heat level while maintaining the dish’s flavor profile.

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this one-pot chicken pasta can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it convenient for quick meals during the week.

• What protein alternatives can I use?

You can substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different protein option while keeping the same Cajun-style cooking method.

Spicy One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.9 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spicy one-pot cajun chicken pasta delivers a flavor explosion straight from Louisiana’s heart. Home cooks can quickly craft this zesty meal with simple ingredients, enjoying a restaurant-quality dinner without complicated techniques.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

Vegetables:

• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced

Pasta and Seasonings:

• 10 ounces (283 grams) penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Sear seasoned chicken in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-6 minutes.
2. Introduce aromatic vegetables including onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the pot, sautéing until they become translucent and tender.
3. Create a rich sauce by combining chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking to ensure smooth integration.
4. Add uncooked penne pasta directly into the liquid mixture, ensuring all pasta is submerged.
5. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then immediately reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and allow pasta to simmer for 13-14 minutes.
6. Periodically stir the pasta to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
7. Once pasta reaches al dente consistency and sauce thickens naturally, incorporate parmesan cheese, stirring until completely melted and creating a creamy texture.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.
9. Serve hot, directly from the cooking pot for maximum flavor and presentation.

Notes

• Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh to create a vegetarian version that maintains the bold Cajun flavor profile.
• Reduce heavy cream and replace with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed alternative that cuts calories without sacrificing creaminess.
• Control spice levels by adjusting Cajun seasoning gradually, tasting as you go to match personal heat tolerance.
• Use gluten-free penne for a celiac-friendly dish that keeps the authentic one-pot convenience intact.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 635 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 780 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 46 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 42 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg