Creamy Cajun Pasta Skillet
This bold and smoky one-pan pasta dish brings together tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a rich cream sauce loaded with Cajun spices. It is ready in under 30 minutes and delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal cleanup.
A spicy and creamy one-skillet pasta packed with Cajun seasoning, chicken, and vegetables.
Nutrition per serving
Ingredients
Spices
Protein
Pasta
Sauce
Vegetables
Aromatics
Dairy
Instructions
Season and Sear the Chicken
Toss the sliced chicken breast with Cajun seasoning until fully coated. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil and sear the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Saute the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced red bell pepper and minced garlic. Saute over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until the pepper softens and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Build the Cream Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
Add the dry penne pasta directly into the skillet, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook over medium heat for 12 to 14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.
Finish and Serve
Return the seared chicken to the skillet and stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the cheese melts and coats the pasta evenly. Serve immediately garnished with extra Cajun seasoning if desired.
Substitutions
Common mistakes
I made this!
Cooked this recipe? Share your photo and inspire others.