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one-pot creamy Cajun chicken pasta with a rich, creamy sauce, chicken, pasta, and red bell peppers in a pot.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta One-Pot

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta One-Pot is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s got that perfect combo of creamy and spicy, making it a comfort food favorite. The best part? You can make it all in just one pot, meaning fewer dishes and less time cleaning up. Plus, if you’re looking to keep things on the healthier side, you can swap regular pasta for whole wheat or use light cream. It’s still full of flavor but with a lighter twist. Even kids will love it, and it’s easy enough for them to help with!
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Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Calories: 550kcal
Cost: $3.50

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 Pound Chicken Breast cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 Tablespoon Cajun Seasoning
  • 2 Cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper sliced
  • 1 Cup Heavy Cream or light cream for a healthier option
  • 2 Cups Chicken Broth
  • 8 Ounces Penne Pasta
  • 1/2 Cup Parmesan Cheese grated
  • 1 Teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 Tablespoon Fresh Parsley chopped (optional)

Instructions

Instructions

  • 1. Heat the Olive Oil
    In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to cook the chicken quickly.
  • 2. Cook the Chicken
    Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and stir. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Keep stirring so the seasoning sticks to the chicken.
  • 3. Add Garlic and Bell Pepper
    Once the chicken is cooked, toss in the minced garlic and sliced bell pepper. Stir them together for about 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the peppers start to soften.
  • 4. Pour in Chicken Broth and Cream
    Slowly add the chicken broth and heavy cream to the pot. Stir everything together to mix the flavors. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use light cream instead of heavy cream.
  • 5. Add the Pasta
    Add the uncooked penne pasta to the pot. Make sure the pasta is completely submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  • 6. Cook the Pasta
    Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. Cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  • 7. Add Parmesan Cheese
    Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This will make the sauce extra creamy and cheesy. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into the sauce.
  • 8. Season and Serve
    Taste the dish and add salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color, if you like. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Why You’ll Love It:
  • One Pot: Minimal dishes and easy cleanup.
  • Quick and Tasty: Ready in 30 minutes and full of bold flavors.
  • Customizable: Make it healthier by swapping the cream or pasta!
This recipe is straightforward and fun to make, with each step easy enough for a 12-year-old to follow. Enjoy the perfect blend of creamy and Cajun spice, all in one delicious pot!
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