Looking for a bold, flavor-packed dinner that’s easy to make and even easier to clean up? This One Pot Chicken and Sausage Cajun Pasta is the answer. A savory, spicy, and creamy pasta dish that brings the soul of Louisiana Cajun cuisine to your kitchen in under an hour. The juicy chicken, smoky sausage, and creamy Cajun-spiced sauce coat every bite of tender pasta—making it the ultimate comfort food. Plus, it all comes together in a single pot, minimizing mess while maximizing flavor.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cajun Pasta
- One pot = minimal cleanup
- Deep, rich flavors from Cajun spices, sausage, and seared chicken
- Family-friendly and customizable
- Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners
Ingredients and Their Roles
Protein:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) – Provides lean, juicy protein and soaks up the Cajun seasoning beautifully.
- 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced – Adds smoky, spicy depth that defines Cajun flavor.
Aromatics and Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used to sear the meats and start the flavor base.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced – Adds sweetness and builds the savory foundation.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Offers pungent, aromatic complexity.
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning – The heart of the dish; gives it heat, smokiness, and bold Southern flavor.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Enhances and balances all other flavors.
Pasta & Liquid:
- 12 oz penne pasta – Holds the sauce perfectly and cooks directly in the pot.
- 3 ½ cups chicken broth – Cooks the pasta and enriches the overall flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the luscious, creamy consistency of the sauce.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (with juice) – Adds tang, acidity, and depth.
Optional Additions:
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds umami richness and helps thicken the sauce.
- Fresh parsley, chopped – For a pop of color and a fresh finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the Chicken and Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add chicken to the pot and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Add sliced sausage to the same pot. Sear until browned, about 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, lower the heat to medium. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Deglaze and Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), and heavy cream. Scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen all the flavor-packed bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Cook the Pasta
Stir in the dry penne pasta and return the chicken and sausage to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente.
5. Finish and Serve
Remove the lid and stir in Parmesan cheese (if using) for added creaminess. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful finish.
Why This Recipe is a Favorite
This one pot Cajun pasta delivers restaurant-quality flavor with home-cooked comfort. The balance of heat, smokiness, and creaminess makes it irresistible to both spice-lovers and creamy pasta fans. It’s a weeknight winner and a meal prep champion, holding up well in the fridge and reheating beautifully.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cajun Pasta
- Use high-quality Cajun seasoning without added salt to better control the saltiness.
- Sear meats separately to develop a deeper, more complex flavor base.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente texture prevents it from getting mushy during reheating.
- Add a dash of lemon juice before serving to brighten and balance the richness.
Related Article: Easy Cajun Chicken Pasta (Crockpot Recipe)
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot with:
- Garlic bread or crusty French loaf to soak up the creamy sauce
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast
- A glass of Chardonnay or light beer to complement the bold Cajun spices
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Chicken and Sausage Cajun Pasta is a celebration of Southern flavors, made effortlessly in your own kitchen. With minimal cleanup, maximum flavor, and a creamy, spicy twist that keeps everyone coming back for seconds, it’s the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.
Make it once, and you’ll understand why this Cajun pasta is one of the most searched and shared recipes online. Simple, hearty, and undeniably delicious—it’s everything a great dinner should be.
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