Instant Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

Aromas of Cajun spices and creamy pasta waft through the air, inviting you to dive into a bowl of comfort. Instant Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a quick and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful seasonings, and perfectly cooked penne—all in one pot. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a delicious, stress-free dinner. You can also make it ahead of time and store it for a later meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The creamy texture is irresistible and comforting.
• Cooking under pressure infuses the dish with deep flavors in just 5 minutes.
• It’s a one-pot meal, which means easy cleanup.
• Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish.

For the Pasta

• 8 oz penne pasta

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

For the Sauce

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

For the Vegetables

• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For Cooking

• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Tip: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt level.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
• Swap chicken for shrimp or sausage for a different protein.
• Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Opt for your favorite bell pepper color for a twist.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your Instant Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta.

1. Sauté

Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add olive oil, then sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft.

2. Brown

Add the chicken pieces and sprinkle them with Cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned.

3. Deglaze

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.

4. Combine

Add the pasta and the heavy cream to the pot.

5. Cook

Close the lid and set the valve to ‘Sealing’. Cook on ‘Manual’ high pressure for 5 minutes.

6. Release

Once it’s done, perform a quick release.

7. Stir

Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

8. Season

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

9. Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, this dish freezes well for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly before adding the pasta.
• Thoroughly deglaze the pot to avoid a burn notice.
• Stir frequently after releasing pressure to incorporate flavors.
• Adjust Cajun seasoning based on your heat preference.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Enjoy it at a family gathering for a crowd-pleasing option.