Looking for an easy weeknight meal that packs a punch? Try my One-Pan Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta! This dish combines bold Cajun spices with tender chicken and creamy pasta—all in one pan. You’ll love how simple and quick it is to make. In this post, I’ll guide you through the ingredients, steps, and tips for a perfect meal. Let’s get cooking and spice up your dinner routine!
Ingredients
List of Main Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces penne pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup bell peppers, diced (mixed colors)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
You will need fresh chicken for this dish. The diced chicken cooks quickly. This recipe uses penne pasta, but you can pick any pasta you enjoy.
Spices and Seasonings
– Cajun seasoning
– Salt
– Pepper
Cajun seasoning adds the spice you crave. You can adjust the salt and pepper based on your taste. If you like it spicy, add more Cajun seasoning for a kick.
Optional Garnishes
– Fresh parsley, chopped
– Additional Parmesan cheese
Garnishing with parsley adds color and flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top makes the dish look fancy. You can serve this dish in deep bowls for a nice presentation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into small pieces. Place the diced chicken in a bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the chicken. Toss the chicken until it is well coated. This step adds big flavor to your dish.
Sautéing Vegetables
Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. It should be browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Cook the onion for 2 to 3 minutes, until it turns translucent. Then, add the minced garlic. Stir and cook for one more minute. This makes the kitchen smell amazing!
Cooking the Pasta and Sauce
Now, add in the diced bell peppers and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook these for another 2 minutes. Next, pour in the uncooked penne pasta along with the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta should be al dente and the sauce thickened a bit.
Combining Ingredients
After the pasta is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Lastly, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped parsley. This final touch makes your dish look great!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture
To get that rich, creamy texture, use heavy cream. It brings a smoothness that lighter creams cannot match. When you add the cream, stir it well into the dish. This helps blend it with the broth. The heat should be low when you add it. Too much heat can make it curdle. If you want an even thicker sauce, add a bit more cheese. Parmesan works great here.
Adjusting Spice Levels
Cajun seasoning can be spicy. If you prefer less heat, use less seasoning. Start with one tablespoon instead of two. You can also add more cream to tone it down. For those who love spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. This will enhance the Cajun flavor. Always taste as you go. Adjusting spice levels to your liking makes the dish more enjoyable.
Cooking Time and Pasta Tips
Cooking time is key for the perfect pasta. You want it al dente, which means firm but not hard. When you add the uncooked penne, stir it well into the broth. This helps the pasta cook evenly. Keep an eye on the time; it should take about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit of chicken broth to loosen it. This keeps everything creamy and smooth.
Variations
Vegetarian Options
You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Swap the chicken for diced tofu or chickpeas. Both options soak up flavor well. Use the same Cajun seasoning to keep that amazing taste. Add more veggies, like zucchini or mushrooms, for a heartier meal. You still get a creamy texture from the heavy cream or try using a plant-based cream.
Adding Seafood
Seafood can bring a new twist to this dish. Shrimp or scallops work best. Simply sauté the seafood in the skillet until it turns pink or opaque. Add it after cooking the veggies. This timing keeps the seafood tender and full of flavor. The Cajun spice pairs nicely with seafood, creating a rich and tasty meal.
Different Pasta Types
Pasta choice can change the dish’s vibe. While penne is great, you can use other shapes. Fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti can work well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta is also an option for health needs. The key is to ensure the pasta cooks until al dente, just like in the recipe.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your One-Pan Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta fresh, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture out. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save it longer, consider freezing it.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat the pasta. Use a microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent it from drying out. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps it warm evenly. You can also reheat it on the stove over low heat. Stir it often until it’s hot.
Freezing Guidelines
To freeze, use a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. This dish can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy your creamy pasta anytime!
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook it fully and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about three days. When ready to eat, just reheat it in a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you need a substitute for heavy cream, try using milk and butter. Mix 3/4 cup of milk with 1/4 cup of melted butter. This mix works well to keep the dish creamy. You can also use half-and-half for a lighter option, but it will have less richness.
How can I make it spicier?
To add more spice, use extra Cajun seasoning. You can also add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes. This will give a nice kick to the dish. Adjust the spice based on your taste. Start with a little, and add more if you want it hotter.
Is it suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. It stores well and keeps its flavor. You can portion it into containers for lunch or dinner. Just remember to cool it down before sealing it. This makes it easy to grab a meal on busy days.
This post walked you through making a delicious creamy pasta dish. We covered the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. I shared ways to customize your dish with variations and how to store it properly.
In summary, this recipe is easy to follow and fun to make. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients. Your pasta will be a hit every time!
