Save This creamy Cajun Chicken Broccoli Pasta Skillet is my secret weapon for quick weeknight dinners that never fail to impress. Juicy chicken, a punchy Cajun kick, crisp-tender broccoli, and a silky Parmesan sauce coat each penne noodle. It is satisfying but not heavy and comes together in just one pan—less mess, maximum flair.
Whenever my family is craving pasta with a twist I whip this up. It was born one rushed Tuesday night when broccoli was the only green in my fridge. Now it is requested almost as often as our favorite mac and cheese.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: Brings lean protein and stays juicy with Cajun seasoning. Look for chicken that is plump and pink for maximum freshness
- Cajun seasoning: Delivers the real flavor backbone with a savory blend of smokiness and a hint of heat. Choose a high-quality mix without additives
- Olive oil: Adds a lightly fruity richness that helps brown the chicken evenly. Go for extra-virgin if you can
- Penne pasta: Holds the saucy goodness in every tube. Bronze-cut or imported Italian brands offer great texture and bite
- Broccoli florets: Give crunch and color while keeping things light. Firm bright-green heads are freshest
- Garlic: Infuses bold aroma and depth that rounds out the Cajun profile. Use plump tight cloves
- Red bell pepper: Brings sweetness and vibrancy. Look for peppers that are glossy and heavy for their size
- Yellow onion: Mellows and intensifies flavor in the sauce. A small onion with no soft spots is best
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and ties everything together. Low-sodium gives you more control over seasoning
- Heavy cream: Makes the sauce ultra rich and creamy. Look for fresh cream without thickeners
- Parmesan cheese: Gives salty nutty punch and silky body to the sauce. Freshly grated cheese melts better
- Unsalted butter: Smooths out the sauce and helps blend flavors. Choose sweet cream butter for best results
- Salt and black pepper: For perfect seasoning—always taste and adjust
- Fresh parsley: To brighten and add herby freshness at the end. Look for flat-leaf for best flavor
- Extra Parmesan: For garnish if you want that extra cheesy finish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
- Boil penne pasta in plenty of salted water until it is just al dente. Two minutes before the pasta is done add broccoli florets right into the pot. This blanches the broccoli perfectly. Drain both together and set aside. You want bright green broccoli and pasta with just a slight chew
- Season and Cook the Chicken:
- In a large bowl toss the chicken pieces thoroughly with the Cajun seasoning so each piece is coated. In your big skillet over medium-high heat pour in olive oil and let it shimmer. Add chicken in a single layer. Brown each side and cook through about four to five minutes. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and keep it warm
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Lower the heat to medium. Toss butter into the same skillet and let it melt until foamy. Add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper. Stir and cook for two to three minutes until they soften but are not browned. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another thirty seconds just until fragrant
- Start the Sauce:
- Pour chicken broth into the pan and use your spoon to scrape up all the browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds tons of flavor. Let it simmer gently for a minute
- Finish the Creamy Sauce:
- Turn the heat very low and pour in heavy cream then sprinkle in Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the cream and sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust with a little salt and black pepper
- Combine Everything:
- Tip the cooked pasta and broccoli into the skillet with sauce. Add the chicken pieces back in and toss or stir very well. Every piece should be coated in the creamy Cajun sauce and everything should be nice and hot
- Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the pasta into bowls and shower each portion with chopped fresh parsley and more grated Parmesan if you like. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor
Save I love how Parmesan brings a salty nutty finish to balance the spice. One of my favorite memories is making this for my kids after a long soccer practice it gave everyone the comfort food hug they needed.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers refrigerate in an airtight container. The sauce may thicken as it sits so add a splash of milk or broth when reheating. Use within three days for best quality
Ingredient Substitutions
If chicken is not your thing swap in cooked shrimp or even sliced turkey sausage. Gluten-free penne or whole-wheat pasta works just as well. You can also use cauliflower if broccoli is not available
Serving Suggestions
This dish feels like a full meal but try pairing it with a simple green salad and warm baguette. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light lager cuts the creamy richness beautifully
Cultural and Historical Context
Cajun cuisine developed from the resourceful French-speaking Acadian settlers of Louisiana. The signature spice blend gives classic Southern personality to any protein or vegetable and is known for bold flavors without overwhelming heat
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring swap broccoli for asparagus or peas. In summer grilled zucchini is lovely. Fall and winter are great with roasted cauliflower or even spinach stirred in at the end
Save This meal is perfect for busy nights and will wow your family every time. Enjoy creamy spicy pasta that makes dinner feel extra special.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes, shrimp or turkey work well in place of chicken. Adjust cooking times to suit your chosen protein.
- → What type of pasta pairs best with this dish?
Penne is ideal, but most short-cut varieties like fusilli or rigatoni would also work nicely.
- → How can I make this meal spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat to your liking.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, simply substitute gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions.
- → What side dishes pair well with this skillet?
A crisp green salad and garlic bread make excellent accompaniments to this vibrant pasta dish.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Simmer gently once adding cream and cheese, and avoid boiling, to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.