Description
This One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a creamy and flavorful dish that combines tender bite-sized pieces of chicken with Cajun spices, fettuccini pasta, and a rich Alfredo sauce. Cooked entirely in one pot, it’s a convenient and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
Liquids and Pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half
- 8 ounces uncooked fettuccini pasta
Spices and Cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces along with half of the Cajun seasoning (1 teaspoon). Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is no longer pink inside.
- Add Garlic: Stir in 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma and flavor.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in 1 ½ cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of half and half. Add the remaining Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Incorporate Pasta: Add 8 ounces of uncooked fettuccini pasta to the pot. You may break the pasta in half if you prefer shorter noodles. Stir to submerge the pasta in the liquid.
- Cook Pasta: Cover the pot with a lid and bring the mixture to a rapid boil. Once boiling, remove the lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent pasta from clumping and sticking, until the noodles are al dente and most of the liquid evaporates, leaving about ¼ inch at the bottom of the pot.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in ½ cup grated parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve: Serve the Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your preference.
- Using half and half gives a lighter Alfredo sauce; for a richer sauce, substitute with heavy cream.
- Stirring frequently during pasta cooking prevents clumping and ensures even cooking.
- The recipe serves 6, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Check the internal temperature of chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked to 165°F.
