Description
A rich, creamy, and spicy Cajun twist on classic Alfredo, this one-pot dish brings bold Southern flavor and easy cleanup to your dinner table. Juicy chicken, zesty Cajun spices, and tender pasta are simmered together in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce—all in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
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2 tbsp olive oil or butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 cups chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta (uncooked)
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3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Season and Sear the Chicken
Coat chicken with Cajun seasoning. In a large pot or deep skillet, heat oil over medium heat and sear chicken on both sides until golden and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F/74°C). Remove and set aside. -
Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté chopped onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. -
Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then add pasta. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered, stirring often, until pasta is al dente and sauce has thickened slightly (10–12 minutes). -
Add Cheese and Seasoning
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. -
Return Chicken and Serve
Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pot. Stir everything together. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture.
Stir pasta frequently while cooking to prevent sticking.
Adjust Cajun spice level to your preference.
For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk.
To make it vegetarian, omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Cajun-American
Keywords: one pot pasta, cajun chicken alfredo, creamy pasta, 30-minute dinner