One Pot Cajun Chicken has become my absolute go-to for a weeknight dinner that’s both incredibly satisfying and ridiculously easy! I’m talking about a creamy, spicy, and totally delicious meal that cooks entirely in one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. Imagine juicy, Cajun-spiced chicken, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta, all swimming in a luscious Alfredo sauce. This recipe truly embodies the magic of Cajun chicken one pot meals, making it a lifesaver when you’re short on time but craving something special. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This One Pot Cajun Chicken
This recipe is a weeknight warrior, designed to make your life easier and tastier. Here’s why you’ll be making this dish again and again:
- Speedy Prep: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll be on your way to a delicious meal in no time.
- Minimal Cleanup: Since it’s an easy one pot Cajun chicken recipe, you’ll only have one pan to wash!
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of Cajun spices, creamy Alfredo sauce, and tender chicken is simply irresistible.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will devour this comforting and flavorful dish.
- Versatile: This simple one pot Cajun chicken meal can be customized with your favorite veggies or proteins.
- Satisfying Meal: It’s a complete dinner in one bowl, packed with protein, pasta, and veggies.
Ingredients for One Pot Cajun Chicken
Gather these ingredients for a delicious Cajun-spiced chicken one pot meal. This list ensures you have everything needed for a flavorful and satisfying dinner.
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes – the star of our dish
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning – this is key for that authentic spicy kick, making it a true Cajun spiced chicken one pot
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for searing the chicken
- Salt and pepper, to taste – to enhance all the flavors
- 8 oz penne pasta – uncooked, it absorbs all the delicious sauce
- 2 ½ cups broccoli florets – for a fresh, healthy crunch
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – the base for our creamy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that aromatic depth
- 1 ¾ cups heavy cream – for that signature rich and creamy Alfredo texture
- ¾ cup whole milk – to lighten the sauce slightly
- 1 ¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese – the secret to a velvety sauce
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – if you like extra heat
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – for a touch of freshness and color
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed) – to adjust sauce consistency
How to Make One Pot Cajun Chicken
Whipping up this delicious one pot chicken Cajun style meal is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps for a flavorful dinner that’s ready in under an hour. This quick one pot Cajun chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken
First, toss your cubed chicken pieces with the Cajun seasoning, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 3–4 minutes per side until it’s beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Once seared, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Reduce the heat under your skillet to medium. Melt the unsalted butter in the same pan where you seared the chicken. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30–45 seconds until it’s wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 3: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Pour the heavy cream and milk into the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic butter. Add the uncooked penne pasta, giving it a good stir to prevent it from sticking together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is perfectly al dente. During the final 5 minutes of the pasta’s cooking time, stir in the broccoli florets.
Step 4: Finish and Combine
Lower the heat to its lowest setting. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety. Return the seared chicken to the pot, gently mixing it into the sauce and pasta. If the sauce seems a little too thick for your liking, stir in some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best One Pot Cajun Chicken
Want to elevate your one pot Cajun chicken game? I’ve picked up a few tricks that make a huge difference in flavor and texture. Follow these tips for a truly outstanding meal every time!
- Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese; the pre-shredded stuff has anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
- Sear your chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan will steam the chicken instead of searing it, and you won’t get that delicious golden-brown crust.
- Don’t skip reserving that pasta water! It’s liquid gold for adjusting the sauce consistency at the end, ensuring it’s perfectly creamy.
What’s the secret to perfect One Pot Cajun Chicken?
The real secret to the best one pot Cajun chicken is building layers of flavor. Searing the chicken first, then sautéing garlic in the fond left behind, creates a deep, savory base that makes all the difference. For more information on building flavor in cooking, you can explore resources on proper searing techniques.
Can I make One Pot Cajun Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Cook the dish completely, then let it cool. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if it seems dry.
How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pot Cajun Chicken?
A common pitfall is overcooking the pasta or broccoli. Add broccoli only during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Also, resist the urge to stir the pasta too much initially; let it simmer undisturbed for a few minutes to prevent it from breaking apart.
Best Ways to Serve One Pot Cajun Chicken
This flavorful one pot Cajun chicken dinner is so satisfying, it can absolutely stand on its own! For a beautiful presentation and an extra pop of freshness, I love to finish it with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley right before serving. If you want to serve it right from the pan, calling it a Cajun chicken skillet recipe feels just right – it’s rustic and hearty! You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta and sauce. Some folks even enjoy it with a side of garlic bread, though honestly, this one-pot wonder is usually enough on its own!
Nutrition Facts for One Pot Cajun Chicken
This one pot Cajun chicken dinner is a hearty meal, and here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving. It’s a balanced dish that packs a punch of flavor.
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat One Pot Cajun Chicken
Leftovers of this delicious one pot Cajun chicken are fantastic, making it perfect for meal prep. Once the dish has cooled completely, transfer any remaining Cajun chicken pasta one pot goodness into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
To reheat, the microwave is super convenient. Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. If the sauce seems a little thick after reheating, stir in a tablespoon or two of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up. Alternatively, you can reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed.
Variations of One Pot Cajun Chicken You Can Try
This versatile recipe is a fantastic base, and I love experimenting with it! Here are a few ways to switch things up for a new twist on your favorite one pot Cajun chicken meal.
- Healthy One Pot Cajun Chicken: For a lighter version, substitute half the heavy cream with half-and-half or even unsweetened almond milk. You can also use chicken tenderloins instead of breasts and load up on extra veggies like bell peppers and onions.
- One Pot Cajun Chicken with Sausage: Add about half a pound of sliced smoked sausage (like andouille) along with the chicken in the first step. It adds an incredible depth of smoky, spicy flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Cajun Chicken and Shrimp One Pot: Want to add some seafood? Cook the chicken and pasta as directed, then add peeled and deveined shrimp during the last 5 minutes of pasta cooking. They cook super fast!
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, increase the Cajun seasoning or add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes. You could even add a diced jalapeño with the garlic for an extra layer of spice.
Frequently Asked Questions About One Pot Cajun Chicken
How to make one pot Cajun chicken?
Making one pot Cajun chicken is all about layering flavors in a single pan. You’ll start by searing seasoned chicken, then building a creamy sauce base with garlic and butter. Uncooked pasta and liquid are added next, simmering until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the sauce. Finally, you stir in cheese and the cooked chicken to create a complete, delicious meal with minimal fuss.
What is one pot Cajun chicken?
One pot Cajun chicken refers to a cooking method where all the ingredients for a Cajun-spiced chicken dish – including the protein, pasta or rice, vegetables, and sauce – are cooked together in a single pot or skillet. This approach simplifies the cooking process and drastically reduces cleanup, making it a popular choice for weeknight dinners.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is fantastic for soaking up the sauce, feel free to use other short pasta shapes like rotini, farfalle (bow-tie), or even elbow macaroni. Just ensure you use the same amount and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed based on the pasta package instructions for your chosen shape.
Is this recipe spicy? How can I adjust the heat?
The spice level primarily comes from the Cajun seasoning. Most Cajun blends have a moderate heat. If you prefer it milder, use a less spicy blend or reduce the amount of seasoning slightly. For more heat, add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes, which are included as optional in the recipe.
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One Pot Cajun Chicken: 10 Min Prep Delight
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This One Pot Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bowl is a creamy, spicy, and satisfying meal made entirely in a single pot. It features juicy Cajun-spiced chicken, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 ½ cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ¾ cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 1 ¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed)
Instructions
- Toss cubed chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium, melt butter in the same pan, and sauté minced garlic for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and milk, stir well. Add uncooked pasta, stir to prevent sticking, bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
- Add broccoli florets during the final 5 minutes of pasta cooking.
- Lower heat, stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Return seared chicken to the pot, mix gently. Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add broccoli towards the end of cooking to keep it crisp-tender and vibrant.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free if needed.
- Sear chicken in batches to avoid steaming and ensure a golden crust.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American / Cajun Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 140mg