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–+ servings

Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet: Bold One-Pot Dinner

This Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet delivers spicy, creamy comfort in one pot. Ready in 30 minutes with bold flavors and minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Chicken, Dinner, Pasta, Quick Meals
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb cooked chicken (shredded or diced) rotisserie chicken works great
  • 12 oz penne or rotini pasta uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for lighter version
  • 3/4 cup BBQ sauce use your favorite smoky or sweet variety
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning adjust for spice preference
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp or mild
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
  • 1 tbsp olive oil California olive oil recommended
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the cooked chicken, then season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is warmed through and fragrant.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, BBQ sauce, and uncooked pasta. Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low.
  4. Simmer gently, stirring every few minutes, for 10 to 12 minutes until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese until both are fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 38gFat: 36gSaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 165mgSodium: 980mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15g

Notes

For a milder dish, use less Cajun seasoning or choose a sweet BBQ sauce. To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use vegan cream cheese and cheddar. Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth to restore creaminess. This recipe is a one-pot meal, but you can add sautéed bell peppers or onions with the chicken for extra flavor. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños. If the pasta absorbs too much liquid while simmering, add a little extra broth or water as needed.

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