Easy One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

If you’re craving a bold, comforting dinner with minimal cleanup, this One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta checks all the boxes. It’s creamy, spicy, and packed with flavor thanks to aromatic veggies, juicy chicken thighs, and a kick of Cajun seasoning. And yes, everything from the pasta to the sauce cooks together in a single pot.

Here’s how to make this satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Wonder

Cooking pasta in the same pot as the sauce isn’t just convenient it actually enhances the flavor. As the pasta simmers in seasoned broth and tomatoes, it absorbs the bold Cajun spices while releasing starches that naturally thicken the sauce. Add cream cheese at the end for a rich, velvety finish.

This dish also delivers balanced macronutrients:

• Protein-rich chicken thighs help keep you full and support muscle health.

• Penne pasta provides energizing carbs.

• Bell peppers and onions add antioxidants and fiber.

According to USDA data, incorporating lean proteins like chicken and colorful vegetables into one-pot meals supports a healthy and varied diet without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for the full recipe (serves 4):

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 4), cut into 1-inch pieces

• 2 1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

• 2 medium green bell peppers, stemmed, seeded, and cut into 1/4-inch strips

• 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, chopped

• 12 ounces smooth penne pasta (don’t substitute this shape ensures perfect cooking)

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• One 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes

• 6 ounces cream cheese, cubed, at room temperature

• Kosher salt

• 4 scallions, sliced, for topping

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps for a one-pan meal with maximum flavor and minimal fuss:

1. Sauté the chicken:
   Heat the olive oil in a wide pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 2 minutes until the chicken starts to brown and the spices become fragrant.

2. Add veggies:
   Stir in the green bell peppers and sliced onions. Cook 3–4 minutes until they soften slightly. Add the garlic and cook 1 minute more.

3. Simmer everything together:
   Pour in the pasta, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has reduced by half.

4. Finish with creaminess:
   Turn off the heat. Add the cream cheese and 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt. Stir well until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. It might seem a bit runny don’t worry, it thickens as it sits.

5. Top and serve:
   Sprinkle with sliced scallions and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Use the right pasta shape: The texture of smooth penne is key for absorbing the sauce evenly without becoming mushy.

• Control the heat: Cajun seasoning can vary in spice level. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat, and add more to taste.

• Make it your own: Add sliced mushrooms or swap in red bell peppers for a touch of sweetness. Leftovers reheat well the next day.

Nutritional Snapshot (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: 480–520

• Protein: 32g

• Carbs: 45g

• Fat: 22g

• Fiber: 5g

(Exact values will vary based on ingredients used.)

This meal offers the kind of comfort food satisfaction we all crave—without the kitchen mess. It’s a full dinner in one pan, and it’s as crowd-pleasing as it is efficient.

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