Creamy One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Easy Weeknight Meal

Looking for a delicious weeknight meal that’s quick and easy? This Creamy One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is the answer! In just one pot, you can whip up a creamy, flavorful dish that will impress your family. With simple steps and tasty ingredients, you’ll have a dinner that’s ready in no time. Let’s dive in and make cooking a breeze with this delightful recipe!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Creamy One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

To make this dish, gather these key items:

– 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cubed

– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 medium onion, chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 bell pepper (any color), diced

– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra flavor)

– 4 cups chicken broth

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 8 oz (about 2 cups) uncooked pasta (penne or fusilli work well)

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients come together to create a rich and hearty meal. The chicken provides protein, while the Cajun seasoning adds a warm kick. The heavy cream and cheese give it a creamy texture that makes it feel special.

Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor

You can boost the taste with these extras:

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1/2 cup frozen peas or spinach

– Red pepper flakes for extra heat

These optional ingredients help you customize the dish. The smoked paprika adds depth, while peas or spinach bring a pop of color and nutrients.

Recommended Kitchen Tools

To cook this dish, you will need:

– A large pot or Dutch oven

– A cutting board

– A sharp knife

– Measuring spoons and cups

– A wooden spoon or spatula

– A serving spoon

Using the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. A large pot lets you stir and combine all ingredients well. A sharp knife helps chop quickly and safely.

For the full recipe, check out the details above.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breast into small cubes. This helps it cook evenly. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken to the pot. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper on top. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. It should be browned and cooked all the way through. Once done, take the chicken out and set it aside.

Cooking the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté these for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want them to soften but not brown. Next, add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds. This brings out the garlic’s strong flavor.

Combining Ingredients and Cooking Pasta

Now, pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juice and the chicken broth. Stir everything together well. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s boiling, add the uncooked pasta. Stir it well to make sure it’s mixed evenly. Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking.

Finishing Touches for Creamy Sauce

After the pasta is nice and tender, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy. Finally, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if you need to. For an extra touch, you can garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your creamy one pot Cajun chicken pasta! For the full recipe, check out the details above.

Tips & Tricks

Pro Tips for Perfectly Cooked Pasta

To get pasta just right, use a big pot. Fill it with water and add salt. The water should taste like the sea. Bring the water to a full boil before adding the pasta. Stir the pasta well to keep it from sticking. Check the package for cooking time and taste a piece to see if it’s done. It should be al dente, firm but not hard. Drain the pasta and save a cup of pasta water. This water can help make your sauce creamy later.

Best Practices for Cajun Seasoning

Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick to your dish. You can buy it pre-made or mix your own. If you mix your own, use paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Start with a small amount and taste as you go. You can always add more if you want extra heat. Apply the seasoning to the chicken before cooking. This helps the flavors blend into the meat.

Ways to Enhance Creaminess

To make the sauce extra creamy, use heavy cream, as in the recipe. You can also add cream cheese or sour cream for a richer flavor. Stir in some grated Parmesan cheese for depth. If you want to add a touch of freshness, try mixing in a splash of lemon juice. This brightens up the dish while keeping it creamy. Don’t forget to use that reserved pasta water if the sauce gets too thick. Just a little can bring everything together beautifully.

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Variations

Substituting Proteins (Shrimp, Sausage, etc.)

You can easily swap out chicken for shrimp or sausage. Shrimp cooks fast, so add it later. For sausage, slice it and brown it before adding veggies. Both options bring a unique taste and pair well with Cajun spices.

Dairy-Free Adjustments

To make this dish dairy-free, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. It gives a nice richness and a hint of sweetness. Also, try dairy-free cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can also skip cheese altogether if you prefer.

Pasta Variations and Alternatives

You can use any pasta shape you like. Penne and fusilli work well, but spaghetti or rotini are great too. If you want a lighter option, use zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta. These alternatives keep the dish tasty while adding more nutrition.

For the full recipe, check out Creamy One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta .

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label your container with the date. This way, you know when to use it.

Reheating Instructions

When you are ready to eat, reheat the pasta on the stove. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help it warm up. Stir it gently over low heat until hot. You can also microwave it in a bowl. Cover it with a lid or a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Heat it for one to two minutes, stirring halfway.

Freezing Tips for Meal Prep

If you want to freeze the pasta, use a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it as described above for a quick meal later. For the full recipe, check out the details above!

FAQs

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?

Yes, you can use different types of pasta. Penne and fusilli work best. You can also try shells or rotini. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if the pasta shapes vary. Each type can change the dish’s texture and look. Mixing it up keeps things fun!

How Do I Make It Spicier?

To add more heat, use extra Cajun seasoning. You can also add crushed red pepper flakes. A dash of hot sauce adds a nice kick too. Start small and taste as you go. You can always add more spice, but it’s hard to take it out. Finding your perfect heat level is key!

What to Serve with Creamy One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta?

This dish pairs well with a simple salad. A green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness. Garlic bread is also great for soaking up sauce. You can serve it with a side of steamed veggies for more color and nutrition. Each option complements the creamy flavors well! For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions to make this easy weeknight meal.

This blog post shared how to make Creamy One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta. You learned about key ingredients, helpful kitchen tools, and easy steps for cooking. Tips for perfect pasta and seasoning make this dish stand out. You also saw how to swap proteins and adjust for dietary needs.

In closing, cooking this dish is simple and fun. With a few tweaks, you can make it your own. Enjoy the creamy goodness!

Creamy One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

Craving a delicious meal that comes together in just one pot? Dive into this creamy One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta that’s bursting with flavor! With tender chicken, zesty Cajun spices, and cheesy goodness, it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights. In just 30 minutes, you can have a hearty meal on the table. Click through to explore this easy recipe and make dinner a breeze tonight!

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Ingredients

  

1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cubed

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra flavor)

4 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

8 oz (about 2 cups) uncooked pasta (penne or fusilli work well)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

 

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

In the same pot, add chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, stirring well. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until pasta is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4