One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
This creamy Cajun chicken pasta is cooked entirely in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. The dish combines seasoned chicken thighs, penne pasta, and a rich tomato‑cream sauce, giving you five ready‑to‑go meals for the week.
Instructions
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Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs, season with onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, red chilli powder, and smoked paprika. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes.
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Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, roughly 3 minutes.
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Pour in the chicken stock, diced/crushed tomatoes, and thickened cream. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
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Add the penne pasta, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, about 12–15 minutes.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Divide the pasta into five portions, sprinkle each with Parmesan cheese and optional parsley, and let cool before storing in the fridge or freezer.
Tips
For extra heat, increase the red chilli powder or add a dash of hot sauce. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore creaminess.
Video
“Cajun Chicken Pasta Meal Prep | One Pot Recipe” by Chef Jack Ovens, watch on YouTube.
About this recipe
The pasta is infused with classic Cajun spices, smoked paprika, and a touch of red chili for gentle heat. The sauce balances the acidity of crushed tomatoes with the richness of thickened cream, while Parmesan adds a salty finish. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, if desired.
Serve the portioned bowls hot or reheat from the fridge or freezer. Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own for a comforting, protein‑packed dinner.
