Craving something creamy, spicy, and utterly satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen? This One Pot Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bowl is your answer. It combines smoky Cajun-spiced chicken with tender broccoli and swirls of pasta all wrapped in a velvety Alfredo sauce — and yes, it all comes together in a single pot. Minimal mess, maximum flavor.

This recipe is perfect for weeknights when you want comfort food fast. The Cajun seasoning adds a kick without overpowering, while the creamy sauce tames the spice just enough. It’s hearty, wholesome, and ideal for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this flavorful one-pot dish come together smoothly, here are the tools you’ll want to have ready:

Large Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven: Essential for cooking everything in one pot. Its wide base ensures even cooking for the chicken, pasta, and broccoli.
Sharp Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: You’ll need these to cut the chicken breast into even pieces and to trim your broccoli florets.
Tongs: Ideal for flipping and handling the chicken pieces while they sear.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Helps in stirring the pasta and sauce without damaging your cookware.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: For precise seasoning and liquid measurements.

Each tool plays a key role in ensuring your Cajun Alfredo turns out creamy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection.

Ingredients for the One Pot Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bowl

Chicken Breast: Lean, juicy, and protein-packed, it forms the heart of this dish.
Broccoli Florets: Adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the sauce.
Pasta (Fusilli or Penne): These shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully.
Heavy Cream: Creates that luxurious, creamy Alfredo base.
Parmesan Cheese: For depth, umami, and a salty finish that brings everything together.
Butter: Adds richness and helps with sautéing the chicken.
Garlic: A foundational aromatic that elevates the whole dish.
Cajun Seasoning: Brings the bold, smoky, slightly spicy kick.
Salt & Black Pepper: Enhances all the other flavors.
Olive Oil: For searing the chicken to golden perfection.
Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth and helps cook the pasta evenly.

How To Make the One Pot Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bowl

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in your skillet over medium-high. Add seasoned chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, and sear until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Base

In the same pan, add minced garlic and a bit more oil if needed. Sauté until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add uncooked pasta directly into the simmering broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Let it cook until al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 4: Add Broccoli

Toss in the broccoli florets about 4-5 minutes before the pasta is done. Cover and let steam lightly with the pasta.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Reduce heat to low, pour in heavy cream, and stir in Parmesan cheese until everything melts into a rich, creamy sauce.

Step 6: Finish & Serve

Return the chicken to the pan, toss everything together to coat evenly in the Alfredo sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Serving and Storing the One Pot Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bowl

Serve this dish warm, straight from the pot. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread. The Cajun spice adds warmth, while the creamy Alfredo clings to every bite of pasta and broccoli.

To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long to preserve the texture of the chicken and pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp, sausage, or even tofu (for a vegetarian twist) work well with the Cajun Alfredo flavor profile.

What type of pasta works best?

Fusilli, penne, or rotini are ideal as they hold onto the creamy sauce nicely. Avoid delicate pastas like angel hair.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild to medium heat depending on your Cajun seasoning. Adjust by reducing or increasing the seasoning to your taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, though it tastes best fresh. If making ahead, store the chicken separately and add it when reheating to maintain texture.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be added directly to the pot. Add it slightly earlier than fresh so it heats through fully.

How can I make it lighter?

Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt. Use less cheese or a lower-fat Parmesan alternative.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you love the comforting combo of creamy sauces and protein-packed chicken, you’ll want to explore these flavorful recipes next:

You might also enjoy the slightly spicy twist in my Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta or the melt-in-your-mouth layers of Buffalo Chicken Lasagna.

For something even easier, try the Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli—a reader favorite for good reason.

If you’re leaning into cozy one-dish comfort, don’t miss the One Pot Spicy BBQ Chicken Cheeseburger Pasta or this hearty Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta.

For more ideas, check out my daily recipe shares on Pinterest @LadyPlate.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dinner boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you swap in shrimp? Add mushrooms? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others put their spin on it.

One Pot Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bowl

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A creamy and spicy one-pot pasta dish that combines seared Cajun chicken, tender broccoli, and fusilli tossed in a rich Alfredo sauce. Perfect for quick weeknight comfort food!