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Creamy 30-Minute One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

Close-up of creamy Cajun chicken pasta with penne, chicken pieces, and green peppers in a white bowl.

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Make a rich, restaurant-style Cajun chicken pasta quickly in one pot for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 8 ounces dry pasta (penne or rotini work well)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces generously with half of the Cajun seasoning.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
  3. Add the onion and bell pepper to the same pot. Cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and remaining Cajun seasoning; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Add the dry pasta to the boiling liquid. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer according to the pasta package directions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream and the cooked chicken. Heat through for 2-3 minutes, but do not boil after adding the cream.
  7. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper with the other spices.
  • If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
  • You can substitute shrimp for chicken for a similar quick meal.

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