Ben Kenwood May 6, 2026

This post may contain affiliate links, please see our Disclosure for details.

One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

Name: One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp olive oil; Chicken breasts (or thighs); 2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 red bell pepper; 1 yellow bell pepper; 1 red onion; 3 cloves fresh minced garlic; 8 oz penne pasta; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 Tbsp cornstarch; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups chicken broth; 14 oz canned tomatoes, diced

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

As the aroma of savory spices fills your kitchen, One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta transforms a regular evening into a delightful culinary experience. This dish bursts with flavors and colors, making it perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or moments when you simply crave comfort food with a twist. The ease of a one-pot meal means less cleanup and more time savoring every bite.

What Makes This Special

Why choose One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta? Here are a few reasons you’ll love this dish:

Simplicity: With everything cooked in one pot, you can whip up a delicious meal without fuss.
Flavor-Packed: The Cajun spices create a savory kick that elevates the flavors of chicken and pasta.
Colorful: Vibrant vegetables not only make the dish visually appealing but also add essential nutrients.
Comforting & Hearty: The creamy sauce and tender chicken make for a satisfying meal that warms the heart.

Gather These Ingredients

To create this wonderful dish, you’ll need some fresh, flavorful ingredients that work beautifully together. Here’s what to collect:

1 Tbsp olive oil
Chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 red bell pepper
1 yellow bell pepper
1 red onion
3 cloves fresh minced garlic
8 oz penne pasta
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 Tbsp cornstarch
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups chicken broth
14 oz canned tomatoes, diced

These ingredients come together effortlessly, bringing a delightful warmth to your table.

Step by Step

Follow these straightforward steps to create your One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta, perfect for busy weeknights:

Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. The fragrance of the oil warming signals the start of something delicious.
Toss the chicken with 1/2 Tbsp of Cajun seasoning and add it to the pot in a single layer. Cook until browned, about 3 minutes, then turn and cook through, about 3 minutes longer. Transfer the chicken to foil to keep warm.
In the same pot, heat the remaining 1/2 Tbsp of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion, sautéing for 3 minutes until they soften slightly and their colors brighten.
Add the minced garlic and the remaining 1 Tbsp of Cajun seasoning, sautéing for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, the diced tomatoes, and the 1/2 cup of heavy cream, bringing it to a boil. The mixture creates an inviting aroma that fills the kitchen. Add the penne pasta and cook for about 12-13 minutes, stirring frequently until nearly tender.
Mix together the cornstarch and a little water; add it to the pot to thicken the sauce. Cook until the pasta is just tender and the sauce has thickened, about 1 minute longer.
Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 1/4 cup of cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and the cooked chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.

Prep ~ 10 minutes, Cook ~ 20 minutes, Total ~ 30 minutes, Servings ~ 4, Kcal ~ 550.

Prepare in Advance

Want to simplify meal prep? You can chop the bell peppers and onion a day ahead and store them in the fridge. This saves time during your cooking process. Additionally, you may season the chicken and keep it covered until you’re ready to start cooking. Just be sure to follow the exact cooking steps after prep to achieve the best flavor and texture.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain creaminess. As a freshness cue, check for any off smells or unusual textures before enjoying your leftovers.

Perfect Pairings

To round out your meal, consider serving One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta alongside:

A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
Homemade garlic knots for an extra touch of comfort
Sautéed green beans or asparagus to add some crunch.
A simple fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
Freshly baked cornbread for a southern-inspired twist.

Variations and Swaps

Make this dish your own by trying some of these ideas:

Vegetable Boost: Add spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for extra nutrients.
Vegan Version: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use a plant-based creamy alternative.
Spice Level: Increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavor profiles.
Different Pasta: Swap the penne for rotini or fettuccine depending on your preference.

Looking for a plant-based twist? This high protein lentil bowl is a great source of inspiration.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

For the best outcome, consider these helpful tips:

Ensure your pot is well-preheated to achieve a good sear on the chicken.
Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking to prevent it from sticking.
If you’re unsure about doneness, a meat thermometer should read 165°F for the chicken.
Creamy sauces should be added towards the end of cooking to prevent curdling.

One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but it’s best to thaw it beforehand for even cooking.
How can I make it lighter? You can reduce the amount of cream or use half-and-half for a lighter version.
Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, simply swap the penne with a gluten-free pasta alternative.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning? You can create your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper for a similar taste.
Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, just replace the chicken with vegetables or plant-based protein and skip the chicken broth in favor of vegetable broth.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s a dish you’ll want to make time and time again. Whether enjoyed on a cozy weeknight or shared with loved ones, this recipe invites warmth and satisfaction into every bite. So gather your ingredients and whip up this delightful dish; your cravings will thank you!

One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free (with adjustments)

Print Recipe

Description

A flavorful, one-pot meal that combines Cajun-spiced chicken and creamy pasta for a comforting dish.

Instructions

Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Toss the chicken with 1/2 Tbsp of Cajun seasoning and add it to the pot in a single layer. Cook until browned, about 3 minutes, then turn and cook through, about 3 minutes longer. Transfer the chicken to foil to keep warm.
In the same pot, heat the remaining 1/2 Tbsp of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion, sautéing for 3 minutes until they soften slightly.
Add the minced garlic and the remaining 1 Tbsp of Cajun seasoning, sautéing for 1 more minute.
Pour in the chicken broth, the diced tomatoes, and the 1/2 cup of heavy cream, bringing it to a boil.
Add the penne pasta and cook for about 12-13 minutes, stirring frequently until nearly tender.
Mix together the cornstarch and a little water; add it to the pot to thicken the sauce. Cook until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, about 1 minute longer.
Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 1/4 cup of cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and the cooked chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.