Craving a flavorful meal that’s quick and easy? Look no further than my One Pot Creamy Cajun Pasta Delight! This dish combines tender chicken, zesty Cajun spices, and creamy goodness—all cooked in just one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing friends, you'll soon discover how simple it is to whip up this satisfying meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!

$- 12 oz penne pasta - 1 lb chicken breast, diced - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning - 1 onion, finely chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes - 3 cups chicken broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) This recipe uses simple yet bold ingredients. Penne pasta serves as the base, soaking up all the yummy Cajun flavors. The chicken breast gives protein and heartiness. Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick, making it fun to eat. In the veggie department, I choose onion, garlic, and bell pepper. They bring sweetness and depth to the dish. The diced tomatoes add moisture and tang. Chicken broth enhances the flavor, while heavy cream creates a rich sauce. Finally, mozzarella cheese melts perfectly into the mix. It adds creaminess and makes the dish comforting. A drizzle of olive oil helps cook the chicken and veggies. Don't forget salt and pepper to taste! Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Gather these ingredients for a quick and delightful meal. Everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup easy! Enjoy the process and the flavors that come together. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. - Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast to the pot. - Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. - Cook the chicken for 7-8 minutes. It should be browned and cooked through. - Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. - In the same pot, add 1 finely chopped onion and 1 diced bell pepper. - Sauté the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they soften. - Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until it smells great. - Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes with juices and 3 cups of chicken broth. - Add the rest of the Cajun seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil. - Once boiling, add 12 ounces of penne pasta. - Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. - Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring now and then, until the pasta is al dente. - Stir in the cooked chicken, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. - Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the dish is creamy. - Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning if needed. - Finally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. - To ensure chicken is properly cooked, cut it into small pieces. This helps it cook evenly. Cook until it reaches 165°F (75°C) inside. Use a meat thermometer for best results. Always let the chicken rest before cutting. This keeps it juicy. - For perfectly al dente pasta, follow the package instructions. Start checking your pasta a minute or two early. It should be firm yet tender. Drain it right away to stop the cooking process. - You can try adding smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. A pinch of cayenne pepper can boost the heat. Experiment with thyme or oregano for extra herbs. - For extra creaminess, mix in cream cheese or a splash of sour cream. You can also fold in some Greek yogurt at the end for a tangy kick. - Serve the pasta in large bowls for a family-style meal. You can also plate it individually for a fancy touch. - For garnishing, sprinkle fresh parsley on top just before serving. Add a few extra cheese shreds for a nice look. A squeeze of lemon can brighten the dish and add color. Pro Tips Cook Chicken Perfectly: Ensure the chicken is browned on all sides before removing it from the pot. This adds depth of flavor to your dish. Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning. You can always add more later if desired. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic and vegetables. They enhance the overall taste and texture of the pasta. Perfect Creaminess: Stir in the heavy cream and cheese gradually, allowing them to melt completely for a silky smooth sauce. {{image_2}} You can switch up the protein in this dish. Shrimp works great in place of chicken. Just cook it until it turns pink and tender. Sausage can bring a nice smoky flavor too. If you prefer vegetarian or vegan options, try using mushrooms or chickpeas. They add texture and flavor without meat. Penne pasta is a classic choice. However, you can use fusilli or rigatoni for a fun twist. Just make sure the pasta holds the sauce well. For gluten-free diets, look for gluten-free penne or other gluten-free pasta. They cook similarly and taste great in this dish. To lighten up the recipe, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. This reduces fat but keeps some creaminess. For dairy-free options, you can use coconut milk or almond milk. These alternatives add a different flavor but keep the dish rich and tasty. To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh longer. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it cools down before sealing. Always check for any off smells before eating. The best way to reheat is in a pot over low heat. Stir it gently to avoid burning. You can add a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy. Microwaving works too, but cover it to keep moisture in. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. For meal prep, you can freeze this pasta. Use a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. It lasts for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding cream if needed. Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauce, then let it cool. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free choice. Both will give you a creamy texture without heavy cream. Just remember, coconut milk adds a hint of coconut flavor. To add more heat, try using more Cajun seasoning. You can also add hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes. Mix these into the sauce while it simmers. Start with a small amount and taste as you go. You can always add more! Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. It stores well and reheats nicely. Divide it into meal-sized portions after cooking. Store them in airtight containers. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal all week. Absolutely! Vegetable broth works well in this dish. It adds flavor without using chicken. This is a great option for vegetarians or those avoiding meat. Just make sure to choose a low-sodium variety for better flavor control. In this post, we explored a delicious recipe featuring penne pasta, chicken, and Cajun seasoning. We covered the main ingredients and provided step-by-step cooking instructions. I also shared helpful cooking tips, variations for different diets, and storage advice for leftovers. Remember, cooking can be fun and easy. Feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients. You can enjoy this meal fresh, or save it for later. Keep these ideas in mind, and happy cooking!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pot Wonder: No need for multiple pots and pans; everything cooks in one pot for easy cleanup.
Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of heavy cream and Cajun seasoning creates a rich and delicious sauce that everyone will love.
Customizable: You can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp or veggies to suit your dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

Vegetables

1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

Additional Components

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

This recipe uses simple yet bold ingredients. Penne pasta serves as the base, soaking up all the yummy Cajun flavors. The chicken breast gives protein and heartiness. Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick, making it fun to eat.

In the veggie department, I choose onion, garlic, and bell pepper. They bring sweetness and depth to the dish. The diced tomatoes add moisture and tang. Chicken broth enhances the flavor, while heavy cream creates a rich sauce.

Finally, mozzarella cheese melts perfectly into the mix. It adds creaminess and makes the dish comforting. A drizzle of olive oil helps cook the chicken and veggies. Don't forget salt and pepper to taste! Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Gather these ingredients for a quick and delightful meal. Everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup easy! Enjoy the process and the flavors that come together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast to the pot.
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
Cook the chicken for 7-8 minutes. It should be browned and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Sautéing the Vegetables

In the same pot, add 1 finely chopped onion and 1 diced bell pepper.
Sauté the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they soften.
Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until it smells great.

Cooking the Pasta

Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes with juices and 3 cups of chicken broth.
Add the rest of the Cajun seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, add 12 ounces of penne pasta.
Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot.
Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring now and then, until the pasta is al dente.

Final Touches

Stir in the cooked chicken, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the dish is creamy.
Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning if needed.
Finally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Techniques

To ensure chicken is properly cooked, cut it into small pieces. This helps it cook evenly. Cook until it reaches 165°F (75°C) inside. Use a meat thermometer for best results. Always let the chicken rest before cutting. This keeps it juicy.
For perfectly al dente pasta, follow the package instructions. Start checking your pasta a minute or two early. It should be firm yet tender. Drain it right away to stop the cooking process.

Flavor Enhancements

You can try adding smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. A pinch of cayenne pepper can boost the heat. Experiment with thyme or oregano for extra herbs.
For extra creaminess, mix in cream cheese or a splash of sour cream. You can also fold in some Greek yogurt at the end for a tangy kick.

Presentation Tips

Serve the pasta in large bowls for a family-style meal. You can also plate it individually for a fancy touch.
For garnishing, sprinkle fresh parsley on top just before serving. Add a few extra cheese shreds for a nice look. A squeeze of lemon can brighten the dish and add color.

Pro Tips

Cook Chicken Perfectly: Ensure the chicken is browned on all sides before removing it from the pot. This adds depth of flavor to your dish.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning. You can always add more later if desired.
Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic and vegetables. They enhance the overall taste and texture of the pasta.
Perfect Creaminess: Stir in the heavy cream and cheese gradually, allowing them to melt completely for a silky smooth sauce.

Variations

Protein Alternatives

You can switch up the protein in this dish. Shrimp works great in place of chicken. Just cook it until it turns pink and tender. Sausage can bring a nice smoky flavor too. If you prefer vegetarian or vegan options, try using mushrooms or chickpeas. They add texture and flavor without meat.

Pasta Substitutions

Penne pasta is a classic choice. However, you can use fusilli or rigatoni for a fun twist. Just make sure the pasta holds the sauce well. For gluten-free diets, look for gluten-free penne or other gluten-free pasta. They cook similarly and taste great in this dish.

Creaminess Modifications

To lighten up the recipe, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. This reduces fat but keeps some creaminess. For dairy-free options, you can use coconut milk or almond milk. These alternatives add a different flavor but keep the dish rich and tasty.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh longer. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it cools down before sealing. Always check for any off smells before eating.

Reheating Instructions

The best way to reheat is in a pot over low heat. Stir it gently to avoid burning. You can add a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy. Microwaving works too, but cover it to keep moisture in. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

Freezing Tips

For meal prep, you can freeze this pasta. Use a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. It lasts for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding cream if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauce, then let it cool. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free choice. Both will give you a creamy texture without heavy cream. Just remember, coconut milk adds a hint of coconut flavor.

How do I make it spicier?

To add more heat, try using more Cajun seasoning. You can also add hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes. Mix these into the sauce while it simmers. Start with a small amount and taste as you go. You can always add more!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. It stores well and reheats nicely. Divide it into meal-sized portions after cooking. Store them in airtight containers. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal all week.

Can I replace chicken broth with vegetable broth?

Absolutely! Vegetable broth works well in this dish. It adds flavor without using chicken. This is a great option for vegetarians or those avoiding meat. Just make sure to choose a low-sodium variety for better flavor control.

In this post, we explored a delicious recipe featuring penne pasta, chicken, and Cajun seasoning. We covered the main ingredients and provided step-by-step cooking instructions. I also shared helpful cooking tips, variations for different diets, and storage advice for leftovers. Remember, cooking can be fun and easy. Feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients. You can enjoy this meal fresh, or save it for later. Keep these ideas in mind, and happy cookin