One-Pan Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake
This One-Pan Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake is bold, creamy, and packed with flavor—perfect for an easy, comforting weeknight meal with minimal cleanup!
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Add the chicken to the hot pan and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Liquids
- Add the uncooked penne pasta to the skillet, followed by the chicken broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook Pasta
- Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let the pasta cook for about 12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, then cover the pan again and cook for 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
Step 6: Season and Garnish
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your perfectly creamy, spicy, and comforting One-Pan Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake.
Equipment
- Large deep skillet or sauté pan
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Notes
- To reduce calories, use olive oil spray or reduce olive oil to 1 tablespoon.
- Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or a lighter cream alternative for a healthier sauce.
- Add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach to increase nutrients and volume.
- Freeze leftovers in portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta; test often and add extra broth if needed to prevent sticking.