If you’re craving something comforting, bold, and made in just one skillet, this One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is your answer. Packed with tender chicken, smoky Cajun spices, creamy sauce, and penne pasta, it’s a one-dish wonder that brings bold Southern flair to your dinner table—without the mess. Whether you’re a beginner cook or just want a simple weeknight meal, this recipe is your go-to solution.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- One pot = less mess: Everything cooks in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Full of flavor: The Cajun seasoning adds bold, smoky heat that balances beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Quick and easy: Ready in just about 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can make it as spicy, cheesy, or veggie-packed as you like.
- Satisfying comfort food: It’s creamy, hearty, and loaded with protein and carbs to fill you up.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Chicken breast: Lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs the Cajun flavor beautifully.
Penne pasta: Holds up well during simmering and soaks in the creamy, spiced sauce.
Cajun seasoning: The soul of this dish—adds a smoky, spicy kick that defines its bold Southern flavor.
Fire-roasted tomatoes: Brings depth, slight sweetness, and acidity to balance the creaminess.
Heavy cream: Makes the sauce luscious, rich, and comforting without being too heavy.
Parmesan cheese: Adds saltiness, nuttiness, and creamy body to the final dish.
Garlic and onions: The flavor foundation for depth and savoriness.
Green onions (optional garnish): Adds freshness and color right before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Season the chicken.
Toss diced chicken breast with Cajun seasoning until well-coated. - Sear the chicken.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Set aside. - Sauté the aromatics.
In the same pan, add diced onions and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. - Add liquids and pasta.
Pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes and chicken broth. Add uncooked penne pasta and stir well. - Simmer and cook.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender. - Make it creamy.
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Add the cooked chicken back in and mix until everything is coated in the sauce. - Garnish and serve.
Sprinkle green onions on top and serve warm.
Expert Tip: Don’t overcook the pasta. Check it a couple of minutes early to avoid mushiness, especially if you’ll be reheating leftovers.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Turn up the heat: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra spice.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in shredded mozzarella or cheddar for a melty twist.
- Veggie boost: Add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Swap the protein: Use shrimp, sausage, or tofu instead of chicken.
- Dairy-free option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and skip the cheese.
How to Store & Reheat
To Store:
Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To Reheat:
Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce, or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’re going to love these other creamy, flavor-packed pasta dishes too! Each one is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comforting, cheesy goodness:
- Creamy Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta – A rich, meaty twist on Alfredo with bacon and ground beef.
- Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta – Bold, buttery, and bursting with herbs and garlic.
- Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta – Ultra creamy and packed with cheesy, garlicky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats well. Just undercook the pasta slightly so it doesn’t get too soft later.
Is Cajun seasoning very spicy?
It can be! Most blends are medium-spicy. Adjust the amount to your heat preference or use a mild version.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely—fusilli, rotini, or rigatoni all work well in this recipe.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.
Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not ideal. The cream and pasta can change texture when frozen, but it’s fine if you don’t mind slight separation upon reheating.
This One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—quick, creamy, flavorful, and made in just one pan. Whether you’re a fan of Cajun cuisine or just want something satisfying and simple, this dish delivers. Try it out tonight, and let me know what you think in the comments or tag your plate on social media!
One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion diced
- 1 bell pepper any color, diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14.5 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ lb penne pasta uncooked
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 green onions chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season chicken with Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onions and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in uncooked pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- When pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Return cooked chicken to the pan.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until creamy. Top with green onions and serve hot.