Creamy One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
A delicious and easy one-pot Cajun chicken pasta with a creamy twist, perfect for busy weeknights.
Equipment
- 1 large pot suitable for pasta
- 1 cutting board
- 1 knife for chopping
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until almost al dente.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and more Cajun seasoning if desired. Return chicken to the pot and mix well. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Storage
- Allow leftovers to cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
Notes
Pro Tips: For extra creaminess, add a bit of cream cheese or Parmesan. Adjust spice levels with the amount of Cajun seasoning. Ingredient Substitutions: Use chicken thighs or shrimp instead of chicken breast. Gluten-free pasta works well as a substitute. How to Serve: Pair with a green salad or garlic bread. Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make-Ahead Tips: Cook the pasta slightly underdone if making ahead to prevent mushiness when reheating.