One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

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Some of the best recipes are born out of cravings. That was the case when I first discovered this One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta I wanted something creamy, a little spicy, and easy enough for a busy weeknight. What I didn’t expect was how quickly this dish would become a household favorite.

This recipe is perfect for beginner cooks because it’s made in just one pot, which means less cleanup and more flavor. The combination of Cajun seasoning, juicy chicken, and creamy sauce creates a restaurant-quality meal in about 30 minutes. Plus, the ingredients are budget-friendly and pantry-staple-friendly, making it an excellent go-to for quick and healthy meals.

Why This Recipe is Special

This Cajun Chicken Pasta stands out because it hits all the right notes:

One-Pot Simplicity – Cooking everything in one pan means less cleanup and hassle.
Bold and Customizable Flavors – You control the spice level, making it as mild or fiery as you like.
Rich and Creamy Texture – The sauce coats the pasta perfectly, creating a luxurious bite every time.

Beginner-Friendly – No complicated techniques, just simple steps that guarantee a delicious result.

Whether you’re a new cook or just looking for an easy dinner idea, this dish is a must-try. Now, let’s get cooking.

Ingredients and Their Role

Understanding why each ingredient is included can help you feel more confident in the kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken (Breast or Thighs) – The protein base of the dish, providing a hearty bite. Thighs add extra juiciness, while breasts keep it lean.
Olive Oil & Butter – A combination of these adds richness while preventing the chicken from sticking to the pan.
Cajun Seasoning – A flavorful mix of paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. This blend gives the dish its signature kick.

Onion – Adds depth and a slightly sweet balance to the spice.
Penne Pasta – Holds the sauce well and cooks perfectly in the broth.
Fire-Roasted Tomatoes – Provide a smoky, slightly acidic contrast to the creamy sauce.

Chicken Broth – Helps cook the pasta while enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
Cream Cheese – The key to a smooth, creamy sauce.
Green Onions – A fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

Want it milder? Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
No cream cheese? Use heavy cream or half-and-half instead.
Prefer a vegetarian version? Swap chicken for mushrooms or zucchini.

Gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and check that your Cajun seasoning is free of additives.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cajun seasoning by mixing paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes, coat it with the seasoning, and set aside.

Step 2: Heat olive oil and butter in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet.

Step 3: Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened. The moisture from the onion will help deglaze the pan, lifting up those flavorful browned bits.

Step 4: Pour in the pasta, fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with their juices), and chicken broth. Stir well to combine, making sure the pasta is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Cover the pan with a lid and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

Step 6: Add chunks of cream cheese to the pan and stir continuously until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.

Step 7: Sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Beginner Tips and Notes

How to tell if the chicken is cooked? Cut a piece in half—if it’s white throughout with no pink, it’s done.

Preventing sticky pasta: Stir the mixture every couple of minutes to keep the pasta from clumping.
Adjusting the sauce thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
Cooking for a crowd? This recipe doubles easily—just use a larger pan.

Serving Suggestions

This one-pot meal is satisfying on its own, but you can make it even better with these pairings:

A crisp Caesar salad to balance the richness.
Garlic bread for extra indulgence.

Roasted vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers for added nutrients.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to revive the creamy texture.

Avoid freezing as the dairy-based sauce may separate.

Try This Recipe and Share Your Thoughts!

I’d love to hear how this One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta turned out for you! Did you add any twists? Share your experience in the comments and let’s talk food.

This easy sheet pan dinner is proof that you don’t need fancy techniques to make a delicious, homemade meal. Happy cooking!

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FAQ About One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Can I make this pasta less spicy?

Yes! To reduce the spice level, simply cut back on the cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning or omit it entirely. If you want a little heat without overpowering spice, start with a small pinch and adjust to taste.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best because they hold the creamy sauce well. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti, which don’t absorb the sauce as effectively in a one-pot method.

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp, sausage, or even tofu can be used as an alternative. If using shrimp, add it toward the end of cooking, as it cooks much faster than chicken.

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