One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: A Quick and Delicious Meal in 30 Minutes
Short introduction
One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish, perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and zesty Cajun spices in just one pot, making clean-up a breeze. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this pasta dish will quickly become a family favorite.
Why you’ll love it
This recipe is packed with benefits that make it a go-to for any meal. First, it saves time, as everything cooks in one pot. You don’t have to worry about boiling pasta separately, which means less hassle and fewer dishes. Second, the creamy sauce with Cajun seasoning provides a delightful kick, making each bite exciting. Finally, it’s customizable—add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your palate. You’ll love how this dish delivers comfort and satisfaction without the lengthy preparation.
Ingredients
To make One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Substitutions & key variations
Feel free to tweak this recipe to your taste. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
- Cream: For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to pack in more nutrients and flavor.
Step-by-step
Step 1
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season it with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2
Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute, letting its aroma fill your kitchen.
Step 3
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4
Once boiling, add the pasta to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the pasta is al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes.
Step 5
Stir in the heavy cream and continue to cook until it’s heated through, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 6
Serve with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley.
Success tips
- Cooking Temperature: Ensure your pot is over medium heat to prevent burning the chicken while ensuring it cooks through.
- Texture: The sauce should be creamy but not overly thick; adjust the cream and broth ratio if needed.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid overcrowding the pot; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking. Also, be cautious with the Cajun seasoning, as it can be spicy—add gradually to suit your spice tolerance.
How to serve
One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is best served hot, right from the pot. Top it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for color and freshness. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage & reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet on medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.
2. How can I make the dish less spicy?
Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning, or substitute it with a mild seasoning blend.
3. Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, and peas work great and add extra nutrients.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
This dish provides proteins and carbs, making it perfect for an active lifestyle. Each serving is generally high in calories due to the cream, so consider portion sizes if watching your intake.
Conclusion
One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful meal that offers comfort, flavor, and convenience. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this dish that your family will love. Try it tonight and experience the delicious harmony of creamy pasta and zesty Cajun spices!
Links to related recipes
- Creamy Garlic Tuscan Chicken
- Spicy Shrimp Pasta
- One-Pot Chicken Alfredo
- Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
- Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice
One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken and season it with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute.
Cooking
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the pasta to the pot. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until pasta is al dente, around 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and continue to cook until heated through.
- Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley.