One pot cajun chicken pasta is the answer when you’re standing in the kitchen, staring at your sink and thinking, “I really don’t want to wash a ton of dishes tonight.” We’ve all been there—hunger hits, but so does the dread of clean-up. You want bold flavors, creamy pasta, juicy chicken—and you want it fast, in one pot. You’re in the right place, friend. Let’s make dinner for one that tastes like it was made for a crowd (but nope, you don’t have to share).
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Wonder
When cooking for one, you need recipes that check three boxes: easy prep, big flavor, and minimal cleanup. This dish delivers. You cook everything—chicken, pasta, veggies, sauce—in one single pot. That means fewer dishes, less time hovering over the stove, and more time enjoying your meal.
Plus, Cajun seasoning brings just the right heat and smoky depth that makes a simple meal feel exciting. And if you want to swap in veggies or adjust the spice? Totally doable. I’ll show you how.
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One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: One-Pot Dinners
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
Description
A bold, creamy one pot cajun chicken pasta perfect for solo cooks. Quick, satisfying, and minimal cleanup — ready in 30 minutes.
Ingredients
1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1/4 small onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup short pasta (penne or rotini)
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Season chicken breast with Cajun seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, sauté bell peppers, onion, and garlic until softened.
4. Add broth and cream, bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in dry pasta, cook uncovered, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
6. Slice chicken and return to pan. Stir to combine.
7. Adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
- Swap in any quick-cooking veggies you have on hand.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: one pot cajun chicken pasta, cajun chicken pasta, dinner for one, one pot pasta
How to Build Flavors in One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Building Bold Flavor From the First Step
The beauty of one pot cajun chicken pasta is that you create layers of flavor right in the pot. No extra pans needed. Here’s how:
First, sear your Cajun-seasoned chicken in a bit of oil. Let it get that golden crust—it’s where so much flavor comes from. Don’t rush this step. When the chicken is done, remove it, but keep those browned bits in the pot (fancy word: fond).
Next, sauté your veggies in the same pot. Onions, bell peppers, garlic—these soak up all that seasoned goodness. When you add broth and cream later, the sauce pulls every bit of flavor into the pasta.
Quick tip: Use low-sodium broth so the Cajun spices shine without becoming too salty.
One-Pot Timing: How to Cook Pasta and Sauce Together
Cooking pasta in the sauce is the one-pot magic move. Once you’ve sautéed your veggies:
- Add broth and cream to the pot.
- Stir in your dry pasta.
- Simmer uncovered, stirring now and then.
The pasta absorbs the liquid as it cooks, thickening the sauce and soaking up every bit of flavor. No need to drain anything. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Return your cooked chicken to the pot, toss to coat, and you’ve got one pot cajun chicken pasta that tastes like you spent way more time on it than you did.
And if you’re hooked on one-pot meals, don’t miss this comforting One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta — another solo favorite.
One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Variations & Pairings
Spice It Up or Tone It Down: Customizing Cajun Heat
One of the best parts of one pot cajun chicken pasta is how easy it is to adjust the spice level. Not a fan of too much heat? Use less Cajun seasoning and add a splash of cream or extra cheese to mellow it out. Love it fiery? Add extra cayenne or even a few dashes of hot sauce at the end.
You can also experiment with smoked paprika for more depth or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the rich flavors. This dish is meant to flex with your mood and your pantry.
What to Serve With One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Even though this dish is a meal in itself, sometimes you want a little something on the side to balance it out—especially when cooking for one and making it feel like a full experience. Here are a few solo-friendly ideas:
- Simple green salad: The cool crunch balances the creamy pasta perfectly.
- Garlic bread: Because mopping up that sauce is a must.
- Sautéed green beans or broccoli: Adds a nice fresh bite to your meal.
- Roasted veggies: If your oven’s already on, toss in some zucchini or asparagus.
Quick pro tip: Don’t overload your plate—since this pasta is rich, light and fresh sides work best.
The same technique works wonders in recipes like this rich One Pot Alfredo Pasta with Jar Sauce — proof that one-pot pastas can deliver big flavor with simple steps.
One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Variations & Pairings
Spice It Up or Tone It Down: Customizing Cajun Heat
One of the best parts of one pot cajun chicken pasta is how easy it is to adjust the spice level. Not a fan of too much heat? Use less Cajun seasoning and add a splash of cream or extra cheese to mellow it out. Love it fiery? Add extra cayenne or even a few dashes of hot sauce at the end.
You can also experiment with smoked paprika for more depth or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the rich flavors. This dish is meant to flex with your mood and your pantry.
What to Serve With One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Even though this dish is a meal in itself, sometimes you want a little something on the side to balance it out—especially when cooking for one and making it feel like a full experience. Here are a few solo-friendly ideas:
- Simple green salad: The cool crunch balances the creamy pasta perfectly.
- Garlic bread: Because mopping up that sauce is a must.
- Sautéed green beans or broccoli: Adds a nice fresh bite to your meal.
- Roasted veggies: If your oven’s already on, toss in some zucchini or asparagus.
Quick pro tip: Don’t overload your plate—since this pasta is rich, light and fresh sides work best.
Want another bold, creamy option? Try this indulgent One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta — it’s perfect for cozy solo nights.
FAQ
Can I cook chicken and pasta in the same pot?
Yes. In this recipe, cooking chicken and pasta in the same pot is not only safe—it’s the secret to building flavor. First, you sear the chicken, then cook the pasta directly in the broth and cream. This allows the pasta to absorb all the delicious flavors in the pot.
What veggies to put in cajun chicken pasta?
Bell peppers, onions, and garlic are classic choices. You can also add spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and texture. Choose quick-cooking veggies that pair well with creamy, spicy sauces.
Why is it called “marry me chicken pasta”?
It’s a fun nickname! The phrase suggests that the dish is so tasty, it could inspire a marriage proposal. While “marry me chicken pasta” isn’t always Cajun, this version delivers the same comforting, irresistible vibe with a bold Cajun twist.
What side dish goes with cajun chicken pasta?
A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or sautéed greens are great side options. Since one pot cajun chicken pasta is creamy and rich, lighter sides help balance the meal and keep it satisfying without being too heavy.
One Last Stir of the Pot
One pot cajun chicken pasta proves that cooking for one doesn’t mean boring. One pan, big flavor, and barely any cleanup—what more could you want? Keep this recipe in your back pocket for any night you’re craving something bold and comforting. Because yes—you deserve great meals, even when it’s just for you.
And if you love spicing things up, this One Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta will be right up your alley next.
Follow me on Pinterest and X for more easy solo meals like this one pot cajun chicken pasta — because cooking for one should always be fun.
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