This One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a creamy, spicy delight cooked all in one pot! Juicy chicken, zesty Cajun flavors, and rich Alfredo sauce come together for a comforting meal.
Who doesn’t love a dish that’s easy to make and cleans up quickly? I like to serve it with a sprinkle of parsley on top for a pop of color. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is great for this dish because its shape holds onto the creamy sauce. If you don’t have penne on hand, you can swap it with rigatoni, rotini, or fusilli—all will work just fine!
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds flavor and depth to the dish. You can replace it with vegetable broth for a lighter touch or use homemade broth if you have some in the freezer.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for quick cooking. You could use thighs instead, as they’re juicy and flavorful, or even shrimp for a seafood twist.
Smoked Sausage: While any smoked sausage works well, andouille sausage is a classic for Cajun dishes. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage is a good substitute.
Cajun Seasoning: This gives the dish its signature kick! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, a mix of paprika, cayenne, thyme, and onion powder can also bring out the flavors.
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Just Right?
Cooking chicken in this recipe is simple but requires a keen eye. You want the pieces to be cooked through but not dry. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Heat the pot over medium heat. Add olive oil and sausage first to create great flavor.
- When cooking the chicken, ensure pieces are spread out so they cook evenly.
- Season the chicken uniformly with Cajun seasoning and garlic powder to maximize flavor.
- Cook until the chicken is just no longer pink, which usually takes 5-6 minutes—no more!
By keeping an eye on the cooking time, you should end up with juicy chicken that enhances your dish.
One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo will take about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll spend roughly 10-15 minutes prepping and cooking, so get ready for creamy, spicy goodness without a lot of hassle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced smoked sausage and cook it until it’s browned, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once done, take the sausage out of the pot and set it aside for later.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In the same pot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Sprinkle on the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and some salt and pepper. Stir it all together and cook until the chicken turns no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
3. Adding the Pasta and Liquid:
Next, it’s time for the penne pasta! Stir it into the pot along with the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta should be cooked al dente and most of the liquid absorbed by the time you’re done!
4. Mixing in the Cheese and Sausage:
Once your pasta is just right, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with the browned sausage you set aside earlier. Mix it all until the cheese melts and the dish turns creamy. It’s getting good!
5. Final Touches:
Remove your pot from the heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken if it needs to. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped parsley over the top for a beautiful garnish. Dive into your flavorful and creamy One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo!
Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Penne?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative and will add some extra fiber to your dish. Just be aware that it may absorb more liquid, so you might want to consider adding a bit more chicken broth if needed. Also, check the cooking time, as it may take a minute or two longer to become tender.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a mix of milk and sour cream. To maintain creaminess, mix 3/4 cup milk with 1/4 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt before adding it to the pot. Just be careful not to boil too hard, as it can separate.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
The leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or milk to bring back the creaminess. You may need to stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add a nice nutritional boost. Just make sure to cut them into small pieces so they cook quickly!
