Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is an easy one-skillet dinner made with tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a rich, flavorful Cajun cream sauce. This comforting pasta recipe is well-balanced, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep since it reheats beautifully.
Servings: 6
Calories: 434kcal
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil divided
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 medium red bell pepper chopped
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper chopped
- ½ yellow onion chopped
- 2 teaspoon garlic cloves minced
- 28 oz chicken broth
- 14.5 oz petite diced tomatoes
- ½ cup half and half
- 12 oz. penne pasta
- 2 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- ¾ cup finely shredded parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoon green onions sliced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Toss chicken with ½ tablespoon cajun seasoning. Add to skillet in a single layer.
- Cook until cooked on bottom for about 5 minutes then flip to cook on the other side. Once cooked through, transfer to a sheet of foil and wrap to keep warm.
- Add bell peppers, onion, and remaining ½ tablespoon Cajun seasoning to the emptied skillet and saute until softened. Add extra olive oil if needed for this step. Add garlic and saute for another minute or two.
- Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and ½ cup half and half. Bring mixture to a boil, then add pasta. Heads up: the half and half may separate slightly, just give it a good stir!
- Cook, stirring frequently until pasta is nearly tender, probably 12-14 minutes. Add cornstarch and water mixture and cook until pasta is just tender and sauce mixture has thickened.
- Remove from heat. Stir in the parmesan and cooked chicken, and season with salt and pepper to taste if needed. Top with additional shredded parmesan and sliced green onions if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary by ingredients, brands, and portion sizes. Use them as a general guide, not a guarantee.
Cajun Seasoning: Cajun seasoning brands vary in salt and spice, so taste as you go and adjust seasoning to your preference.
Chicken Sizing: Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces to ensure quick, even cooking.
Storage: Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Nutrition
Serving: 1g | Calories: 434kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 67mg | Sodium: 560mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 7g
