I’ll never forget the night I first made this One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta – it was one of those “throw everything together and pray” moments that turned into a family legend. My husband had been craving something creamy, the kids were hangry, and I needed dinner on the table in 30 minutes flat. That’s when inspiration struck – what if I combined our love for spicy Cajun flavors with rich Alfredo sauce… all in one pot? The smell of garlic and paprika filling the kitchen had everyone gathered around the stove before I could even call them. When that first creamy, spicy forkful hit their mouths? Absolute silence – the best compliment a home cook can get. Now it’s our go-to when we need comfort food fast, with minimal cleanup to boot!
Why You’ll Love This One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll make it on repeat. Here’s why it’s become my family’s favorite crazy-fast dinner:
- Done in 30 minutes flat – From fridge to table before the kids start asking “What’s for dinner?” for the third time
- One pot = happy you – Just toss everything in, cook, and only one pan to wash (my kind of cleanup!)
- Creamy meets spicy in the best way – That rich alfredo sauce with Cajun kick? Pure flavor magic
- Even picky eaters devour it – My spice-wary niece asks for seconds every time
It’s the perfect balance of comforting and exciting – like giving your usual pasta night a delicious makeover!
Ingredients for One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy, spicy wonder – I promise it’s all simple stuff you might already have! The magic happens when these basic ingredients come together in one pot. Pro tip: grab everything before you start cooking – it comes together fast once you get going!
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast – Cut into bite-size pieces (I like them about 1-inch so they cook evenly)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For that perfect golden sear on the chicken
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning – My secret? I use half now, half later for layered flavor
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic – Fresh is best, but jarred works in a pinch
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth – The liquid gold that cooks our pasta to perfection
- 1 cup half and half – Makes it luxuriously creamy without being too heavy (though you could use heavy cream if you’re feeling indulgent!)
- 1 teaspoon salt – Just enough to make all the flavors pop
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper – Freshly cracked is my preference
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder – For that extra garlicky punch
- 8 ounces uncooked fettuccini pasta – Break it in half if you want easier stirring (no judgment here!)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese – The real stuff, not the powdery kind – it makes all the difference
See? Nothing fancy – just good, honest ingredients that transform into something magical. If you love creamy pasta dishes, you might also enjoy my Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi – it’s another family favorite that comes together in one pot!
How to Make One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Okay, let’s get cooking! This one-pot wonder comes together so easily – just follow these simple steps and you’ll have creamy, spicy perfection in no time. The best part? You’ll only dirty one pot (I know, right?). I’ve made this dozens of times, and here’s exactly how I do it to get perfect results every single time.
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
First things first – grab your biggest, deepest skillet or Dutch oven and heat it over medium-high. Add that olive oil and let it get nice and shimmery before tossing in your chicken pieces. Sprinkle half the Cajun seasoning right over the chicken – this builds layers of flavor. Now, don’t fuss with it too much! Let those pieces get a beautiful golden sear (about 3-4 minutes per side). When the chicken hits 165°F inside, toss in the garlic and let it work its magic for just 30 seconds – you’ll smell when it’s ready!
Step 2: Simmer the Pasta
Here’s where the magic happens! Pour in your chicken broth and half and half, then add the rest of the Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Give it a good stir to combine all those flavors. Now, break your fettuccini in half if you want (I totally do – easier to eat!) and add it straight to the pot. Cover it, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring every couple minutes to prevent sticking. The pasta will soak up all that creamy goodness while it cooks – just wait until you taste it!
When the pasta’s al dente, take it off the heat and stir in that glorious parmesan cheese until it’s melted into silky perfection. If you love quick chicken dinners like this, you’ve got to try my Chicken Lo Mein next – it’s another 30-minute wonder!
Tips for Perfect One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta
After making this dish more times than I can count, I’ve picked up some tricks that take it from good to “can I have thirds?” good. Here are my can’t-live-without tips:
- Break that pasta! I know purists gasp, but snapping fettuccini in half makes stirring way easier and helps it cook evenly in the pot.
- Spice it your way – Start with less Cajun seasoning if you’re unsure, then taste and add more at the end. My kids like it mild, so I serve hot sauce on the side for us heat lovers.
- Freshly grate your Parmesan – The pre-shredded stuff never melts as smoothly. I keep a wedge in my fridge just for this recipe.
- Don’t walk away! Stir every 2-3 minutes while the pasta cooks – it prevents sticking and helps the sauce thicken perfectly.
Trust me, these little touches make all the difference between a decent dinner and a “when are you making this again?” masterpiece!
Serving Suggestions for One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Oh honey, this pasta is so good it could stand alone, but I love rounding out the meal with a few simple sides. A crusty loaf of garlic bread is perfect for sopping up that creamy sauce – my kids fight over the last piece every time! For something lighter, toss together a quick green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. If you’re feeling fancy, roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans make gorgeous (and easy!) additions. Need more inspiration? Check out my guide on what to serve with French onion soup – many of those pairings work beautifully here too!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Now, I know this One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta is so delicious you might not have leftovers – but if you do, here’s how to keep them tasting fresh! Store any extra in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk and warm it gently over low heat, stirring often. The milk brings back that creamy texture perfectly. Pro tip from my kitchen: microwave reheating can make the sauce separate, so stovetop is always my go-to for keeping that silky smooth consistency we love!
Nutritional Information
Now, I’m no nutritionist, but here’s the scoop on what’s in each serving of this deliciousness! Keep in mind these are estimates – your exact numbers might dance around a bit depending on your ingredients. For one hearty portion (about 1/4 of the recipe), you’re looking at:
- 450 calories – Comfort food that won’t leave you hungry!
- 18g fat (7g saturated) – That creamy goodness comes from the half and half and Parmesan
- 30g protein – Thank that chicken for keeping you full
- 40g carbs – Pasta power for energy
- 800mg sodium – The Cajun seasoning brings some salt, so go easy if you’re watching intake
Remember, these numbers are just guidelines – your mileage may vary based on exact brands and measurements. But hey, when something tastes this good, who’s counting?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use heavy cream instead of half and half?
Absolutely! I’ve made it both ways, and while half and half gives you that perfect creamy-but-not-too-rich balance, heavy cream makes it extra luxurious. Just use the same amount – your sauce will be slightly thicker and more indulgent. My husband actually prefers the heavy cream version (especially on cheat days!).
How can I make this pasta spicier?
Oh honey, I’ve got you! Try adding an extra teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, or toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper when you’re sautéing the chicken. My personal trick? I keep a bottle of hot sauce on the table – let everyone customize their own bowl. My Texas roots mean I usually add a few extra shakes!
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Please do! I often toss in sliced bell peppers or mushrooms when cooking the chicken. Spinach stirred in at the end wilts beautifully too. Just remember – watery veggies like zucchini might thin your sauce, so sauté them separately first. My kids don’t always notice the extra veggies when they’re swimming in that creamy sauce!
What if my sauce seems too thin?
Don’t panic! Let it sit off heat for 5 minutes – it’ll thicken as it cools. If it’s still too runny, sprinkle in a little extra Parmesan while stirring. And next time? Try reducing the broth by 1/4 cup. I’ve made this mistake before – we just called it “Cajun chicken alfredo soup” and ate it with extra bread!
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Of course! Penne, bowties, even rotini work great – just adjust cook time per package directions. I avoid super long pastas like spaghetti though – they’re harder to stir in one pot. My neighbor swears by using cheese tortellini for an extra special twist (and I won’t argue with her – it’s delicious!).
Print
One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- Total Time: 30 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A creamy, spicy pasta dish made in one pot for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 ounces uncooked fettuccini pasta
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Add chicken and half the Cajun seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add chicken broth, half and half, remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir to combine. Add fettuccini pasta.
- Cover the pot and bring to a boil. Remove lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 10-12 minutes until noodles are al dente. Stir frequently.
- Remove from heat and add parmesan cheese. Stir until melted. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Break pasta in half if desired for easier stirring.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 20 min
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: one pot, cajun, chicken alfredo, pasta, easy meals, dinner ideas, healthy dinner, quick dinner, weeknight dinners