Save This Cajun Chicken Broccoli Pasta Skillet is my go-to for nights when I want something bold and flavorful with minimum cleanup It brings a taste of the South with juicy Cajun-spiced chicken roasted veggies and a creamy sauce all wrapped up in perfectly cooked penne pasta It is comfort food that comes together fast and satisfies a crowd
The very first time I made this I was craving something bold but did not want to spend ages in the kitchen Now whenever my family smells Cajun spices sizzling they gather around the stove waiting for a taste It is always a hit
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: juicy and tender builds the protein base Choose fresh organic if possible for best texture
- Cajun seasoning: blends smoky heat and depth Opt for a high-quality blend without too much salt
- Olive oil: provides a flavorful base for browning chicken Use extra virgin for a fruity kick
- Penne pasta: holds sauce beautifully with its tubular shape Try whole wheat for extra fiber
- Broccoli florets: bring green crunch and extra vitamins Pick vibrant green heads and avoid limp pieces
- Garlic: infuses the dish with aromatic depth Freshly minced delivers brightest flavor
- Red bell pepper: adds sweetness and color Look for firm glossy skin
- Yellow onion: softens into the sauce enhancing natural sweetness Choose a smaller onion for richer flavor
- Chicken broth: helps deglaze the pan and creates body for the sauce Low sodium keeps it from being too salty
- Heavy cream: gives sauce its luxurious creaminess Go for full fat for smoothest results
- Parmesan cheese: brings rich salty depth Always grate fresh from the block for best melt
- Unsalted butter: rounds out the sauce Use top-quality butter for a clean taste
- Salt and black pepper: fine tunes flavors Use freshly cracked pepper for best bite
- Fresh parsley for garnish: adds brightness and color Optional but recommended
- Extra Parmesan as garnish: for a cheesy finish Never too much cheese on top
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Start by boiling a large pot of water generously salted Add penne pasta and cook until al dente about 10 minutes In the last two minutes add broccoli florets to the pot alongside the pasta This ensures both finish at just the right texture Drain everything well and set aside
- Season and Prep Chicken:
- Toss bite-sized chicken pieces generously with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated Let the spices rest on the chicken while the pasta cooks which helps the flavors penetrate and keeps the meat juicy
- Brown the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high Add the seasoned chicken without crowding the pan Sear for four to five minutes Stir a couple of times to ensure all sides brown Remove chicken from skillet and set aside so it stays moist
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Using the same skillet melt the butter over medium Toss in finely chopped onion and diced bell pepper Stir frequently for two to three minutes until they soften and start to release their sweet scents Add freshly minced garlic Stir just until fragrant about thirty seconds being careful not to burn
- Deglaze and Begin the Sauce:
- Pour in chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any golden bits stuck to the bottom Let the liquid simmer gently which builds rich flavor in the sauce
- Finish the Creamy Sauce:
- Lower the heat and add heavy cream along with grated Parmesan cheese Stir constantly until the cheese melts into the sauce and everything thickens slightly Season with a pinch of salt and a good grind of black pepper Taste and adjust if needed
- Combine and Toss Everything:
- Add cooked pasta broccoli and browned chicken back into the skillet Toss gently until every piece is coated in creamy sauce Let everything warm through for two to three minutes so flavors meld
- Serve and Garnish:
- Spoon piping hot servings onto plates Top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and more Parmesan for extra flavor Serve immediately to enjoy at its freshest
Save My favorite part is the moment you add heavy cream and Parmesan to the skillet and everything transforms into a luscious sauce I remember my daughter once sneaking extra broccoli from the pan before dinner was served because the Cajun smell made her too hungry to wait
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator Eat within three days for best flavor Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to keep the pasta sauce creamy
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in shrimp or sliced turkey breast for a lighter twist You can substitute whole wheat or gluten free penne to fit your pantry If you do not have heavy cream try half and half for a lighter sauce though it will not be quite as rich
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad and a slice of crusty bread to soak up extra sauce A glass of cold Sauvignon Blanc or light beer pairs perfectly Add a dash of hot sauce for those who love more heat
Cultural Context
This recipe takes inspiration from classic Louisiana flavors blending them with Italian pasta for a true fusion comfort food Cajun seasoning brings that smoky warmth that feels so inviting on a cool evening Pasta skillets like this one are a Southern family favorite because they make the most of pantry staples
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap out broccoli for asparagus or green beans in spring In late summer use diced zucchini or yellow squash for variety Roast red peppers over an open flame for extra smoky flavor
Success Stories
My husband now requests this dish for every birthday dinner and my neighbor asked for the recipe after one bite It is that trustworthy For busy nights I make the pasta and chicken in advance then just bring it all together right before serving
Freezer Meal Conversion
Cool completely then portion into freezer safe containers and freeze up to two months Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove while stirring in a splash of chicken broth to bring back the creamy texture
Save This skillet dish delivers Cajun comfort with vibrant color and creamy sauce Make extra for leftovers because this one disappears fast
Recipe FAQ
- → How spicy is the Cajun chicken pasta skillet?
The heat level depends on the Cajun seasoning and any added cayenne or hot sauce. You can adjust spiciness to your preference.
- → Can I substitute another protein for chicken?
Yes, shrimp or turkey work well in this dish. Adjust the cooking time for different proteins as needed.
- → Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely. Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- → What pasta shape works best with this combination?
Penne pasta is used for its shape and ability to hold sauce, but rotini or rigatoni are good alternatives.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can make this meal ahead and reheat gently. Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to refresh the sauce.