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One Pan Cajun Chicken Pasta with chicken, peppers, and creamy sauce in a skillet.

Cajun Chicken Pasta

A creamy and flavorful pasta dish with Cajun seasoning, perfect for a quick and cozy dinner, all prepared in one pan.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 pound Boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs Thighs stay extra juicy.
  • 8 ounces Penne pasta Short pasta is easiest in one pan.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Store bought is fine; adjust salt according to saltiness.
  • 1 each Bell peppers (red and green) For color and sweetness.
  • 1 each Yellow onion Red onion is a nice alternative.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh is best but jar garlic works too.
  • 4 cups Chicken broth Helps cook the pasta and builds flavor.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream For richness; half and half works too.
  • 1 cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese Melts smoother than pre-shredded.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter or oil For browning the chicken and starting the base.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Slice the chicken into bite-size pieces and toss with Cajun seasoning, a pinch of salt if needed, and a little pepper.
  2. Heat oil (or oil plus a small pat of butter) in your pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken and let it brown, then pull it onto a plate.
  3. In the same pan, add onion and bell peppers, stirring until they soften slightly. Add garlic and stir for about 30 seconds.
Cooking
  1. Pour the chicken broth into the pan, scraping the bottom with a spoon.
  2. Add the pasta straight into the pan, stir to cover with liquid, and bring to a gentle boil, then lower to a simmer.
  3. Stir every couple of minutes. When the pasta is almost done and most of the liquid is absorbed, add the chicken back in.
  4. Turn the heat to low, pour in cream, and sprinkle in parmesan. Stir until creamy and the pasta is coated.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with more Cajun seasoning, a pinch of salt, or a splash of broth as needed.

Notes

Keep the simmer gentle and stir often to avoid sticking. Add cheese on low heat for a smoother sauce. Perfect for leftovers; add a splash of broth when reheating.