One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty bowl of One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta. I recall the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and the aroma of spices filled my kitchen, drawing my family together. As I stirred the pot, I could already envision their smiling faces as they took the first bite. The creamy texture combined with the robust flavors of Cajun seasoning and tender chicken creates an unforgettable meal that warms the soul. This recipe quickly became a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining friends. The beauty of it all is that it comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients Required for One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

When it comes to creating a delicious bowl of One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta, the ingredients you choose play a vital role in the overall flavor and texture. This recipe features a harmonious blend of ingredients that work together beautifully. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and zesty Cajun seasoning create a dish that is both satisfying and unforgettable. Let’s take a look at the key players in this delightful recipe.

• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and depth of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the vegetables and adds a fruity note.
• 1/2 medium onion chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base.
• 2 chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces: The star protein that makes this dish hearty.
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped: Adds a tangy flavor and a touch of sweetness.
• 1 (10 fluid ounce) can chicken broth: Provides moisture and a savory depth.
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: Creates a creamy, luscious sauce.
• 3 cups water: To cook the pasta and balance flavors.
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (use a salt-free one): Delivers the signature Cajun flavor.
• 1-2 cloves garlic minced: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 3 cups uncooked fusilli pasta: The perfect shape to hold the sauce.
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, cheesy element right before serving.
• 6 leaves fresh basil chopped: A fresh garnish that brightens the dish.

Putting Together One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

Making One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a straightforward and enjoyable process. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions!

1. Start by adding the butter and olive oil to a fairly large pot over medium-high heat. The combination of these two will create a rich, flavorful base for your dish.

2. Next, toss in the chopped onion and sauté it for about five minutes. You want it to become translucent and slightly golden, as this will enhance its natural sweetness.

3. While the onion is cooking, take your chicken breasts and cut them into bite-size strips. Make sure to trim off any excess fat or gristle for a cleaner taste. Once the onion is ready, add the chicken to the pot.

4. Cook the chicken for a couple of minutes until it turns white on the outside. This is just the initial cooking stage; it will finish cooking later with the other ingredients.

5. Now, it’s time to add the sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, cream, water, Cajun seasoning, garlic, and fusilli pasta to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.

6. Increase the heat to high and wait for the mixture to come to a boil. This step is crucial as it allows the pasta to start cooking properly.

7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-high (or lower) to maintain a gentle boil. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

8. Cook for about 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the pasta; you want it to be cooked al dente and for the liquid to reduce to your liking.

9. Finally, stir in the parmesan cheese and chopped basil right before serving. This will give your dish a creamy finish and a fresh burst of flavor.

Variations to Try

If you’d like to mix things up, there are plenty of variations you can try with One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta. Here are some tasty ideas:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for a medley of your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Seafood Twist: Replace the chicken with shrimp or even crab meat for a delightful seafood version. Cook the shrimp just until pink and tender.
• Cheesy Goodness: For an extra cheesy kick, mix in some shredded mozzarella or fontina cheese along with the parmesan.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicier dish.
• Different Pasta Shapes: While fusilli works great, try other shapes like penne or rigatoni for a different texture.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to change the flavor profile.

Pairing Suggestions for One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

When it comes to serving One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta, the possibilities are endless. Here are some fantastic pairing suggestions to complement this delicious dish:

• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes for a refreshing side. The acidity of the dressing balances the creaminess of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread for the perfect vehicle to scoop up all that delicious sauce.
• Wine Pairing: While I advocate for mindful drinking, a light, crisp white wine can elevate your dining experience.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to revive the creaminess.

FAQ

Conclusion

One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful combination of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors that make it a standout in any recipe collection. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy it brings to your table. You’ll love how easy it is to create a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also brings family and friends together.

One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta combines creamy flavors with a spicy Cajun kick! This easy weeknight dinner will satisfy your cravings and has the added bonus of being made in just one pot.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 523

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion chopped
• 2 chicken breasts chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
• 1 can chicken broth (10 fluid ounce)
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 3 cups water
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (use a salt-free one)
• 1-2 cloves garlic minced
• 3 cups uncooked fusilli pasta
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• 6 leaves fresh basil chopped

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Large Pot
• Skillet

Method

 

1. Add the butter and olive oil to a fairly large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion to the pot and sauté for about five minutes, stirring occasionally (ok if it lightly browns).
3. Meanwhile, cut the chicken breasts into bite-size strips, and trim off any excess fat/gristle if necessary. Add chicken to the pot and cook it for a couple of minutes until the outside of the chicken turns white.
4. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, cream, water, Cajun seasoning, garlic, and pasta to the pot. Stir. Increase heat to high. Once it comes to a boil, reduce heat to medium-high (or lower) so it's gently boiling.
5. Cook for 10-15 minutes (stir occasionally so pasta won't stick to the bottom) or until the pasta is done and the liquid is reduced to a level you're satisfied with.
6. Stir in the parmesan cheese and basil before serving.

Notes

This recipe is accurate as tested on my stove. However, stoves (especially electric ones) can vary, so if you notice the pasta is not yet cooked and there doesn't seem to be enough liquid, I suggest using your best judgment and adding a bit more liquid as needed, a half cup at a time until the pasta is cooked. Some pastas absorb more liquid than others, so I suggest sticking to the type of pasta I recommend in this recipe. I used the sun-dried tomatoes that are packed in oil. Some Cajun seasonings have a lot of salt, so be careful or this dish can be over-salted really quickly.

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Meet Quinn Taylor

Great food doesn't have to be complicated, it just has to be smart. I focus on streamlining our recipes so you get maximum flavor with minimum stress. I cooked, timed, and tasted this dish multiple times to ensure it fits perfectly into your busy life while still delivering that 'wow' factor.