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Creamy One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

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A quick and easy one-pot pasta dish combining smoky Cajun spices, tender chicken, and a creamy sauce for a flavorful and comforting dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 8 oz penne or rigatoni pasta (uncooked)
  • 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
  • Optional garnishes: fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Toss to coat evenly.
  2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and nearly cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle boil. Add uncooked pasta and stir well to prevent sticking.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover skillet with lid, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes until pasta is tender and sauce is creamy.
  6. Return cooked chicken to skillet along with drained diced tomatoes. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if using. Serve immediately.

Notes

If sauce is too thick, add extra broth or cream. Stir frequently during simmer to prevent sticking. Use penne or rigatoni for best sauce retention. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives. Gluten-free pasta can be used to make the dish gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta, one-pot pasta, creamy pasta, quick dinner, easy weeknight meal, spicy pasta, comfort food

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