If you’re craving something rich, creamy, and packing a little Southern flair, you absolutely have to try this One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe. Imagine fork-tender bites of chicken coated with zesty Cajun spices, intertwined with pasta in a luxuriously cheesy sauce, all made in just one pot. This dish is the perfect answer for weeknights when you want maximum flavor with minimum fuss, bringing bold energy and comfort straight to your table.

One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe couldn’t be simpler, yet each item plays a unique role in building layers of spice, creaminess, and irresistible richness. These essentials transform everyday staples into a restaurant-worthy meal with vibrant flavor and a kick of heat.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and soak up all that Cajun seasoning for spicy, juicy perfection.
Olive oil: A neutral base for sautéing, adding a little richness while ensuring nothing sticks to the pan.
Cajun seasoning: The star of the show, this blend infuses every bite with warmth, smokiness, and just the right amount of heat.
Garlic: Three fresh cloves give depth and lovely aroma, which meld seamlessly into the sauce.
Low-sodium chicken broth: This forms the flavorful foundation for both cooking the pasta and building the creamy sauce.
Heavy cream: Lends lusciousness and that signature Alfredo feel you’ll crave with every forkful.
Penne pasta (uncooked): Penne’s shape holds the sauce beautifully, and it cooks to the perfect tenderness right in the pot.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and salty, Parmesan adds the critical cheesy dimension and thickens the sauce.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts like a dream for that ultimate gooey factor—cheese pulls, anyone?
Salt and black pepper: For that final seasoning adjustment, letting all the other flavors pop.
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Brightens up the finished dish, adding fresh color and a touch of herby flavor.

How to Make One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Take your chicken pieces and toss them with 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning. This step ensures every bite is tinged with that unmistakable Cajun heat and flavor—and early seasoning means a deeply infused taste once it hits the pan.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s beautifully golden and cooked through. Once done, scoop the chicken out and set aside for a bit—don’t worry, it’ll return to the party soon!

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

With your pot still hot and brimming with flavorful bits from the chicken, add in the minced garlic. Let it sizzle for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn; you’re aiming for mellow, sweet, and savory undertones here.

Step 4: Build the Sauce Base

Pour in the chicken broth, then add the heavy cream, uncooked penne pasta, and the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir it all together, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. This mixture is about to transform into the dreamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, all at once.

Step 5: Simmer the Pasta

Crank up the heat and bring everything to a gentle boil, then drop down to a simmer. Cook for 12 to 14 minutes, stirring every now and then. Watch as the pasta softens, soaks up the flavors, and the sauce thickens into something magical.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Once your pasta is just al dente and the sauce is thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella. The cheeses will melt right in, making everything creamy, glossy, and cheesy—all the best parts of this One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe.

Step 7: Return the Chicken and Finish

Now, bring back your golden-cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together so the chicken is coated in that decadent, spiced cheese sauce. Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed. Finally, shower the dish with fresh chopped parsley for that burst of color and freshness.

How to Serve One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley over your steaming One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe just before serving. A little extra Parmesan or even a pinch of red pepper flakes also works wonders if you like a spicy kick or a nutty finish.

Side Dishes

This rich, creamy pasta loves a simple side. Classic garlic bread is always welcome, perfect for soaking up that dreamy sauce. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds balance, cutting through the richness without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the pasta in a large, shallow bowl family-style, letting everyone help themselves. For an elevated touch, pile individual portions into smaller bowls and finish with extra fresh parsley, or add a few colorful sautéed bell peppers or spinach for added vibrance and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, let the One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe cool to room temperature and transfer to an airtight container. The flavors often deepen overnight, making for an absolutely crave-worthy lunch the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions. Pack the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers. While the sauce may separate a touch upon thawing, a gentle stir on reheating will bring it right back to creamy deliciousness.

Reheating

To warm things up, place leftovers in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until heated through, and sprinkle with extra cheese or parsley if desired. The microwave works too—just cover and heat in short bursts so it doesn’t dry out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for soaking up the sauce, feel free to use rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time as needed and add a bit more broth if the pasta is especially thirsty.

Is this One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe very spicy?

The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning and personal taste. Using the amount listed gives a gentle warmth, but you can always increase or decrease the Cajun seasoning to find your perfect level of kick.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Sautéed bell peppers or a handful of fresh spinach stirred in at the end are lovely additions, bringing color, nutrition, and even more flavor to the One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe.

Is there a way to make this lighter?

You can swap half-and-half for the heavy cream and reduce the cheese slightly, though the sauce will be a bit less rich. For even more veggies, try mixing in steamed broccoli or roasted mushrooms.

What’s the best pan to use?

A large, deep skillet or a Dutch oven is ideal. You want enough space for the pasta to cook evenly and for stirring without spills. Nonstick works well, but any heavy-bottomed pan will give you great results.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about a recipe that brings everyone to the table and makes them linger for just one more bite. This One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe is that kind of meal—easy, vibrant, and deeply satisfying. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a helping (or two) as soon as you can; it just might become your new favorite pasta night tradition!

One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo recipe is a creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Tender chicken pieces are seasoned with Cajun spices and combined with pasta in a luscious Alfredo sauce. With just one pot needed, this recipe is convenient and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, divided

Alfredo Sauce:

3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups heavy cream
12 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Season and Cook Chicken: Season chicken with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning. Brown the chicken in olive oil over medium-high heat.
Prepare Sauce: Sauté garlic in the skillet, then add chicken broth, heavy cream, uncooked pasta, and remaining Cajun seasoning. Simmer until pasta is cooked.
Finish Dish: Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted. Return chicken to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with parsley.