If you’re craving a creamy, spicy, and utterly comforting dish that comes together with minimal fuss, this One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken and smoky sausage swimming in a luscious, cheesy Alfredo sauce, brightened with a kick of Cajun seasoning and the fresh pop of parsley. It’s an all-in-one meal that bursts with bold flavors, and the best part? Everything cooks in a single pot, cutting down on cleanup and giving you more time to savor each bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is carefully selected to build layers of flavor and a rich, velvety texture that’s downright irresistible. These simple staples come together to create a dish that’s balanced between creamy, savory, and zesty.
- 4 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a luscious base for browning the chicken and sausage, contributing to a deep, savory flavor.
- 1 pound chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender protein that soaks up the Cajun spices and creamy sauce perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances and balances the natural flavors of the meat and sauce.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a mild heat and depth to the dish.
- 14 oz smoked sausage, sliced on the diagonal: Brings a smoky richness that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic pungency and warmth.
- 1 quart low-sodium chicken broth: Helps cook the pasta and adds savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- 2 1/2 cups heavy cream: The secret to that perfectly creamy Alfredo texture.
- 1 pound penne pasta, uncooked: Absorbs all the luscious sauce and seasoning for a wonderfully filling meal.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, plus more to taste: Brings the iconic Southern spice kick that defines the recipe.
- 4 oz freshly shredded Parmesan cheese, plus more as needed: Adds sharp, nutty undertones and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- Italian parsley for garnish: Adds brightness and a fresh color contrast on top.
How to Make One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Pat your bite-sized chicken pieces dry and season them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat, add the chicken pieces carefully and let them brown until each side has that irresistible golden crust. This step not only seals in juices but also adds essential flavor to your dish.
Step 2: Add the Smoked Sausage
Once the chicken is beautifully browned, toss in the sliced smoked sausage. Cook these together until the sausage develops a slight char and crisp edges. This smoky addition complements the creamy sauce and infuses the whole dish with rich, hearty flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Garlic Aromatics
Next up is the garlic—add the minced cloves and sauté them in the same pot for about two minutes until fragrant. Garlic unlocks incredible aroma and depth, making the whole kitchen smell like pure comfort food heaven. Just be careful not to burn it!
Step 4: Add Broth, Cream, Pasta, and Cajun Seasoning
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and heavy cream, then add the uncooked penne pasta along with the Cajun seasoning. Give everything a good stir to fully combine. This mix will slowly transform into that luscious sauce as the pasta cooks and absorbs all the goodness.
Step 5: Simmer Gently Until Pasta Is Tender
Turn up the heat until the liquid comes to a simmer, then reduce to low and cover the pot. Let it cook gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is perfectly tender and the flavors meld seamlessly. This slow simmer is where magic happens.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and Parsley
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts into the sauce, thickening it and adding that irresistible nutty, creamy finish. Sprinkle chopped Italian parsley on top for a fresh, bright touch and a little extra Cajun seasoning if you want a bolder kick.
How to Serve One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh Italian parsley is ideal to brighten the deep, creamy colors of the dish. For an extra-special touch, add a dash of grated Parmesan or even a slice of lemon on the side for a hint of acidity that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta meal pairs wonderfully with crisp, buttery garlic bread for sopping up every last drop of sauce. A simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette would also cut through the creaminess, giving your meal a refreshing balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish in rustic bowls to keep it cozy and casual, or plate it elegantly on large white plates, allowing the vivid Cajun hues and parmesan specks to pop visually. Garnishing with a sprig of parsley or freshly cracked pepper adds a gourmet touch perfect for impressing guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for a quick and flavorful weekday lunch or dinner.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, do so without the fresh parsley garnish and cheese topping, as these don’t freeze well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back that creamy texture, stirring frequently. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to keep the sauce smooth and lump-free.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great due to its shape and ability to hold sauce, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since different pasta shapes vary in size and texture.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter version, half-and-half can work, but the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. For dairy-free options, unsweetened coconut milk or cashew cream can be experimented with, though the flavor will change slightly.
How spicy is this One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe?
The Cajun seasoning adds a moderate spicy kick, but you can easily adjust it to your taste. Add more seasoning for extra heat or reduce it for a milder dish while still maintaining the signature Cajun flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, omit the chicken and sausage and add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth keeps the flavor hearty without meat.
What’s the best way to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick?
Stirring the pot a few times during the simmering stage helps keep the pasta separate and prevents it from sticking. Also, using enough broth and cream ensures there’s enough liquid for the pasta to cook evenly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a meal that delivers bold flavor, creamy texture, and genuine comfort all in one pot. This One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe is a winner every time, whether you’re cooking for your family or guests. Give it a go—you’ll soon find it becoming one of your favorite go-to dinner ideas that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to enjoy.
Print
One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Description
This One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a flavorful and creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and a spicy Cajun kick in a rich Alfredo sauce. Prepared in a single pot, it is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that requires minimal cleanup while delivering bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 14 oz smoked sausage, sliced on the diagonal
Liquids & Dairy
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 quart low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz freshly shredded Parmesan cheese, plus more as needed
Dry Goods & Spices
- 1 pound penne pasta, uncooked
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Garnish
- Italian parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat and brown the chicken until cooked through and slightly golden on the edges.
- Add Sausage: Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot with the chicken. Cook together until the sausage is lightly browned and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
- Cook Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about two minutes, until the garlic becomes aromatic but not burnt, to build the flavor base.
- Add Ingredients: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and heavy cream. Add the uncooked penne pasta and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the sauce.
- Finish: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and well distributed. Add chopped Italian parsley and additional Cajun seasoning to taste for an extra flavorful kick. Serve immediately garnished with more Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta during simmering; check for al dente texture after 15 minutes.
- If the sauce thickens too much as it cools, add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
- Using low-sodium broth allows you to control saltiness better while still maintaining flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
