Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is your answer! This dish combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and zesty Cajun flavors—all cooked in one pot. You won’t just save time on clean-up; your taste buds will thank you too! Let’s dive into how to whip up this flavorful delight that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 450 g diced chicken breast
– 225 g penne pasta
– 950 ml chicken broth
– 240 ml heavy cream
– 100 g grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Vegetables
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
To create a One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, you need some key ingredients. First, the chicken. I use 450 g of diced chicken breast. This tender meat cooks well and absorbs the Cajun flavors.
Next, we need 225 g of penne pasta. Penne holds the sauce well, making every bite tasty. For the base, I rely on 950 ml of chicken broth. It adds rich flavor and moisture to our dish.
For creaminess, I use 240 ml of heavy cream. This gives the pasta a rich texture and a smooth finish. Don’t forget the 100 g of grated Parmesan cheese. It melts beautifully, adding depth to the flavors.
Now, let’s talk about seasonings and veggies. I start with 2 tablespoons of olive oil for sautéing. Then, I add 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning for that kick. A diced bell pepper, either red or yellow, adds color and sweetness.
I also include 1 small onion, finely chopped, for a savory base. Three minced garlic cloves will give us that aromatic boost.
Finally, I season with salt and pepper to taste. Fresh parsley serves as a lovely garnish, bringing brightness to the dish. Each ingredient plays a role in crafting this flavorful delight.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
– Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
– Season 450 g of diced chicken breast with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
– Add the chicken to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes.
– Cook until the chicken turns golden brown.
Sautéing Vegetables
– Once the chicken is done, remove it and set it aside.
– In the same pot, add 1 diced bell pepper, 1 small finely chopped onion, and 3 minced garlic cloves.
– Sauté the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they soften.
Cooking Pasta
– Add 225 g of penne pasta and 950 ml of chicken broth to the pot.
– Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
– Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Finishing the Dish
– When the pasta is al dente, stir in 240 ml of heavy cream.
– Return the cooked chicken to the pot.
– Gradually mix in 100 g of grated Parmesan cheese until the dish is creamy and well blended.
– Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
This dish combines bold flavors with simple steps, making it fun to prepare. Enjoy each bite of this creamy delight!
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To make your One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta even better, consider these tips:
– Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
– Try adding smoked paprika for a deep flavor.
– A dash of hot sauce can give it a kick.
You can adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you want more spice, add more Cajun seasoning. Taste it as you go. This way, you get the perfect flavor.
Serving Suggestions
For garnishes, fresh parsley adds a great touch. You can also sprinkle more Parmesan cheese on top. This makes your dish look nice and taste better.
Pair this pasta with a simple green salad. A side of garlic bread also complements the meal well. If you like, serve it with some roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
Cooking Methods
You can use any pasta you like for this dish. Penne works well, but farfalle or fusilli are great too. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.
To make this in a slow cooker, cook the chicken first. Then add the other ingredients. Let it cook on low for about 4 hours.
If you use an Instant Pot, cook for 5 minutes on high pressure. Quick-release the steam, then stir in the cream and cheese. This gives you a creamy and delicious meal in no time.
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can switch the chicken for shrimp or sausage. Shrimp cooks fast, so add it near the end. Sausage needs more time, so cook it first. If you prefer a vegetarian meal, use chickpeas or tofu. Trim cooking time for these proteins as they need less time to cook.
Veggie Add-Ins
Try adding seasonal veggies like zucchini or spinach. These add color and nutrition. Chop them and toss them in with the chicken. You can also stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking. This way, they stay bright and fresh.
Cream Sauce Alternatives
You can use different cheeses, like mozzarella or feta. This changes the flavor and texture. If you want a lighter dish, swap heavy cream for almond or coconut milk. These dairy-free options work well and keep the dish creamy.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta fresh, store it in the fridge. Use airtight containers for best results. This dish lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If you need to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Place the pasta in freezer-safe bags and remove as much air as possible. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, reheating is easy. You can use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, place the pasta in a pan with a splash of chicken broth. Heat over low heat, stirring gently. If using the microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between.
To keep the creaminess intact, add a little extra cream or broth while reheating. This helps restore the dish’s smooth texture. Avoid high heat; it can make the sauce separate. Enjoy every bite, just like the first time!
FAQs
How do I make One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free penne pasta. Many brands offer great options. Check the cooking time, as it may differ from regular pasta. You can also check labels on chicken broth to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes, you can add more heat! Use extra Cajun seasoning for a bolder taste. You can also add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking. If you want it really hot, try using a spicy sausage instead of chicken.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you need a substitute for heavy cream, use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch. Coconut milk is a good option too. Each choice will slightly change the flavor but will still give a creamy texture.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes about four servings. Each serving is filling and perfect for a family meal. You can easily adjust the recipe for more people by doubling the ingredients.
This article guides you through making a delicious One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. You learned about key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for flavor and storage.
I encourage you to try different proteins and veggies for your personal touch. Remember, every meal can be an adventure in flavor. Enjoy your cooking journey!
