One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s not only delicious but also easy to make, then you’re in for a treat with this One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta. This dish brings together tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a creamy sauce that’s spiced just right. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s bursting with flavor and can be on your table in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner!

Top Reasons to Make One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and one pot to clean, this dish is perfect for any night of the week.
• Flavor-Packed: The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick, making every bite exciting and savory.
• Versatile: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
• Comfort Food: Creamy pasta is always a crowd-pleaser, and this recipe is no exception.
• Family-Friendly: With its rich flavors and colorful presentation, it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!

Ingredient Notes

• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and vegetables, giving a rich flavor.
• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces ensure even cooking.
• Cajun Seasoning: A blend of spices that adds warmth and flavor; you can use store-bought or make your own.
• Bell Peppers: Both red and yellow peppers add sweetness and color, enhancing the dish visually and in taste.
• Red Onion: Provides a mild onion flavor that balances well with the spices.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds depth and aroma to the dish.
• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth keeps the dish flavorful without being overly salty.
• Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes: These contribute a smoky flavor that complements the Cajun seasoning.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
• Penne Pasta: This shape holds the sauce well and makes for a hearty meal.
• Cornstarch: A simple slurry thickens the sauce, making it creamy and luscious.
• Parmesan Cheese: Finely shredded cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that brings everything together.
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds freshness and a pop of color as a garnish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.

Equipment & Tools

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Ideal for cooking everything in one pot without spillage.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring the ingredients together.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Needed for chopping vegetables and chicken.
• Small Bowl: For mixing cornstarch with water.

One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Slice the bell peppers into strips, about 2 inches long, and thinly slice the red onion. Mince the garlic cloves, and set everything aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sprinkle them with 1 1/2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, along with the red onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the two cans of low-sodium chicken broth and the can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Add the Pasta

Add the penne pasta to the pot, stirring to ensure it is submerged in the liquid. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.

Step 6: Make it Creamy

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add this to the pot and stir well to thicken the sauce.

Step 7: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the remaining 1/4 cup of heavy cream and 3/4 cup of finely shredded Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the creamy pasta into bowls, then sprinkle with 3 tablespoons of minced fresh parsley for a touch of freshness. Enjoy your One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta while it’s hot!

Quick Replacement Ideas

• If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, use a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
• For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or skim milk.
• Swap out the penne pasta for fusilli or rotini if you prefer a different shape.
• Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Overcooking the Pasta: To avoid mushy pasta, check for doneness a couple of minutes before the recommended cooking time.
• Too Thick Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little more chicken broth or water until the desired consistency is reached.
• Not Enough Flavor: Adjust seasonings at the end; if it’s lacking, a touch more Cajun seasoning or salt can brighten the dish.
• Burnt Garlic: If your garlic burns, it can impart a bitter taste. Make sure to add it towards the end of the vegetable cooking time.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To store leftovers, let the One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use whole wheat pasta instead of regular penne?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works great and adds extra fiber to the dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat level?

The spiciness largely depends on the Cajun seasoning used. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a mild blend. You can always add hot sauce at the table for those who like it spicy!

What can I serve with One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but a simple side salad or garlic bread would complement it perfectly!

Serve & Enjoy

This One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. With its blend of spices, creamy texture, and colorful veggies, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish will impress with its bold flavors and beautiful presentation. So grab that pot and get ready to dive into a bowl of deliciousness! Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!