One Pot Creamy Cajun Honey Bbq Chicken Pasta

I was craving something creamy, spicy, and just a little sweet. That’s when I whipped up this One Pot Creamy Cajun Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta. It’s bold, rich, and made in one pot—yes, really.

The Cajun heat brings the kick, the honey BBQ adds that sweet smoky flavor, and the cream ties it all together. The chicken gets juicy and tender, and the pasta? Soaks up every drop. It’s a flavor bomb, but super easy.

It’s got layers—spicy, sweet, creamy, smoky—all in one bite. I love how fast it comes together and how there’s basically no cleanup. Total weeknight win.

Let me show you how I make it step by step. One pot, tons of flavor, and no stress. You’re gonna love it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy One-Pot Dish: No mess, no fuss. Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Bold and Flavorful: The Cajun seasoning, honey BBQ sauce, and tender chicken create a deliciously smoky and sweet flavor profile.
• Creamy Goodness: A rich and creamy sauce coats every bite of pasta, making it indulgent yet comforting.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and flavorful.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and have a quick, satisfying meal ready to go.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: About 30 minutes

Servings:
This recipe serves 4 people. You can easily double it for a larger crowd or if you want leftovers.

Difficulty:
This recipe is beginner-friendly but full of flavor that will impress even experienced cooks.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:

• Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: You’ll need a deep skillet or Dutch oven to cook the pasta and chicken in one pot.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the sauce and pasta.
• Measuring Spoons: To get the right amount of seasoning for your chicken.
• Tongs: For flipping the chicken during cooking.

Ingredients for One Pot Cajun Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta:

Here’s everything you need to create this dish, and the exact measurements will be in the recipe card at the end:

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Cajun Seasoning: A bold, smoky spice mix to give the chicken some heat.
• Smoked Paprika: For that deep, smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauce.
• Oregano: Adds a bit of earthy, herbal freshness.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the chicken and enhance all the flavors.
• Green Bell Pepper: Sliced for a nice crunchy texture.
• Red Onion: For a sweet and savory bite.
• Garlic Purée: A quick and easy way to infuse garlic flavor into the dish.
• Dry Pasta: Penne or bowtie pasta works best in this dish, as it holds the creamy sauce well.
• Honey: Adds sweetness to balance the tangy BBQ sauce.
• BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite, whether tangy, sweet, or smoky.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a touch of umami and depth to the sauce.
• Chopped Tomatoes: For a bit of acidity and color.
• Lighter Mature Cheddar: For a creamy, melty topping that brings it all together.
• Spring Onions (Optional): For garnish and a fresh pop of color.
• Dried Parsley (Optional): For extra color and flavor.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Cajun Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. This will give the chicken a flavorful crust when it cooks.

2. Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary. Toss in the sliced green bell pepper, red onion, and garlic purée. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

4. Add the Pasta and Sauce

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the dry pasta to the skillet, followed by the honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and chopped tomatoes. Pour in enough water or chicken broth to cover the pasta (about 2-3 cups). Stir everything well to combine.

5. Simmer the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid. The sauce should be thickened and creamy at this point.

6. Add the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, add in the lighter mature cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes rich and creamy. If you like a creamier consistency, feel free to add a splash of heavy cream or milk.

7. Return the Chicken

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, and stir to combine it with the pasta and sauce. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to heat everything through.

Serving and Garnishing One Pot Creamy Cajun Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta

1. Plate the Dish

Once everything is cooked and the cheese is melted, it’s time to serve! Spoon the creamy Cajun honey BBQ chicken pasta onto plates. The rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken will make every bite a delicious experience.

2. Garnish

For an added touch of color and flavor, sprinkle the pasta with freshly chopped spring onions and a dash of dried parsley. The fresh herbs will add a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.

3. Pairing Suggestions

This dish is rich and comforting on its own, but if you’re looking to add a side, here are a few options:

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will help balance out the creamy flavors.
• Garlic bread or a crusty loaf would be great for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans will complement the flavors and add some crunch.

Storing One Pot Creamy Cajun Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta

• Leftovers: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: If you want to freeze leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, use less, or add more if you like extra heat.
• Creamier Sauce: For an even creamier sauce, stir in some heavy cream or cream cheese toward the end of cooking.
• Chicken Variations: If you don’t have chicken breasts, you can use thighs for a juicier result. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	550 kcal
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	60g
Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	7g
Fiber	3g
Sugars	15g
Sodium	850mg

FAQs for One Pot Creamy Cajun Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can swap the penne or bowtie pasta for any pasta you prefer. Fusilli, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni will work just as well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Can I make this recipe with shrimp instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can easily swap the chicken for shrimp. Just be sure to cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes until they’re pink and opaque, then follow the rest of the recipe as written.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then heat it on the stove or in the microwave.

5. Can I make this recipe spicier?

If you want a spicier version, you can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the dish. Adjust the heat to your personal preference.

6. Can I use a store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes, using store-bought BBQ sauce is perfectly fine. Choose your favorite BBQ sauce flavor, whether sweet, smoky, or tangy, to complement the dish. If you prefer, you can also make your own homemade BBQ sauce for a more personalized touch.

7. How can I make the sauce creamier?

For an even creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese toward the end of cooking. Stir until it’s fully incorporated for a richer texture.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. You can find a variety of gluten-free options at most grocery stores.

Conclusion

This One Pot Creamy Cajun Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy nights. With smoky BBQ, sweet honey, and a Cajun kick, it’s a meal everyone will love. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!