Need a weeknight dinner that’s bold, creamy, and ready in under 40 minutes with only one pot to wash? Meet your new go-to: One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta. This flavorful dish combines juicy, spice-rubbed chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and tender pasta all simmered in a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce. It’s comfort food with a kick—and it’s surprisingly easy to make!
Why You’ll Love This Pasta
- One pot = less mess – No extra pans or strainers required.
- Full of flavor – Cajun spices, garlic, and fire-roasted tomatoes bring major taste.
- Creamy & satisfying – Rich but balanced, thanks to heavy cream and Parmesan.
- Customizable – Swap chicken for shrimp or toss in extra veggies.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make it happen:
Protein & Produce
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- ½ red onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
For the Sauce & Pasta
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 oz penne pasta
To Finish
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make It
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning and add to the pot in a single layer. Sear for 4–5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Add a little more oil if needed, then toss in the bell peppers and onion. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until tender. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
Step 3: Simmer with Pasta
Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then stir in uncooked penne pasta. Let it cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 12–14 minutes or until pasta is tender and sauce has thickened.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir in Parmesan and optional cornstarch slurry to thicken sauce further, if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot!
Tips & Variations
- Make it spicier: Add cayenne or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Use another protein: Shrimp, sausage, or even tofu work great here.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Stir occasionally and check early for doneness.
- Lighten it up: Use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter version.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is the weeknight dream: bold flavor, creamy sauce, tender pasta, and minimal cleanup. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to land on your repeat recipe list.
Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back to this spicy, creamy classic. Serve it with a simple green salad and crusty bread—or just enjoy it all on its own. Either way, dinner is done.
Happy cooking!