One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

snackonmeat

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Here’s a quick and easy recipe that combines chicken, pasta, and veggies in a creamy Cajun-seasoned sauce—delicious and effortless!

Table of Contents

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning (recipe available)
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced into strips (about 2 inches long)
  • 1 medium yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips (about 2 inches long)
  • 1 small red onion (5-6 oz), halved and thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (about 2 tsp)
  • 2 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream, divided
  • 12 oz. penne pasta (Barilla recommended for consistency)
  • 2 tsp cornstarch, mixed with 1 Tbsp water
  • 3/4 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 3 Tbsp minced fresh parsley
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Chicken: Heat 1 Tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken with 1/2 Tbsp of Cajun seasoning and add it to the pot in a single layer. Cook until browned on the bottom (about 3 minutes), then flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a sheet of foil and wrap to keep warm.
  2. Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, heat the remaining 1/2 Tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bell peppers and onion, sautéing for about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and the remaining 1 Tbsp of Cajun seasoning, cooking for another minute.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the penne pasta.
  4. Cook the Pasta: Stir frequently and cook until the pasta is nearly tender, about 12-13 minutes. Add the cornstarch-water mixture and cook for an additional minute until the pasta is just tender and the sauce thickens.
  5. Finish the Dish: Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 1/4 cup of cream, Parmesan cheese, minced parsley, and the cooked chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve: Enjoy your warm, creamy Cajun chicken pasta!

This meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and packed with flavor!