Instant Pot Chilis Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta

Make your favorite Chili’s Cajun Chicken Pasta at home with this Instant Pot copycat recipe—creamy, flavorful, and easy to prepare!

Instant Pot Chili’s Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and creamy dish that brings the bold taste of Cajun seasoning and tender chicken together in one pot. The chicken is seasoned with a perfect blend of Cajun spices, then pressure-cooked to lock in moisture and flavor.

Combined with pasta, a rich cream sauce, and a touch of parmesan, this dish is comforting yet has a satisfying kick. Quick and easy to make in the Instant Pot, it’s a delicious, weeknight-friendly meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• The Instant Pot makes this Cajun Chicken Pasta incredibly quick and easy, saving you time while delivering delicious flavor.
• The creamy sauce combined with Cajun spices creates a rich, savory dish with just the right amount of heat.
• Tender chicken and pasta cook to perfection in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• This recipe captures the bold and satisfying flavors of Chili’s Cajun Chicken Pasta, bringing your favorite restaurant dish straight to your kitchen.
• Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is a one-pot wonder that’s both comforting and full of zesty flavor.

Ingredients Needed

• Pasta: Use penne pasta, ziti, bowtie pasta, or rigatoni. Any short pasta will work.
• Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast, or chicken tenders
• Butter: Use unsalted butter for the best flavor
• Half and Half: You can also use almond milk, coconut milk, or heavy cream
• Shredded Cheese: Use Parmesan cheese or Mozzarella Shredded Cheese
• ​Seasonings and Spices: Cajun Seasoning, Kosher Salt, Black Pepper, lemon zest, and Garlic Powder
• Liquid: You can use low-sodium chicken broth or chicken stock instead of water for added flavor. 
• Serving: Serve with sliced green onions or fresh parsley. ​

How To Make Instant Pot Chilis Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step One: Place the penne pasta in the Instant Pot and fill it with enough water to cover the noodles.  Close the lid and seal your lid by pushing the valve away from you. Set to manual high pressure for 8 minutes. Once your cook time is complete, quick release the valve toward you to open the pressure. Drain your cooked pasta in place in a separate bowl. Set aside.

Step Two: Season your chicken with the Cajun spices and slice the chicken into strips. Press the saute button on the Instant Pot after you are done cooking your pasta. Add four tablespoons of olive oil. Place your coated chicken into the bottom of the instant pot, and Sauté until the inside of your chicken reaches 165 degrees F by using a meat thermometer. 

Step Three: Continue to keep your Instant Pot in saute function. Add in your butter, half-and-half, lemon zest, pepper, salt, and garlic powder to your Instant Pot. Continue to stir until it starts to bubble.  Return your past to the bowl, mixing well.

​Step Four: Transfer your pasta to your serving dish. Top with a few chicken strips, extra Cajun seasoning, black beans, diced tomatoes, and as much Parmesan cheese as you want! 

Instant Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Chili’s Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your Cajun seasoning is fresh for the best bold and zesty flavors.
• Adjust Spice Level: Tailor the heat to your preference by adding more or less Cajun seasoning.
• Cook Pasta Just Right: For al dente pasta, follow the recommended cooking time closely to avoid overcooking.
• Check Chicken Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe and juicy results.
• Don’t Skip the Sauté: Sautéing the chicken and sauce ingredients adds depth and enhances the flavor of the dish.
• Creamy Sauce Consistency: Let the sauce bubble slightly before mixing in the pasta for a thick and velvety finish.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh to keep the pasta and sauce perfectly textured.

Storing

• Storing: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the pasta is completely cooled before storing to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy sauce consistency. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Instant Pot Chilis Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe Faqs

Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use any pasta, but adjust the cooking time to match the instructions for the type of pasta used.

How can I make this dish less spicy? Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a milder blend to lower the spice level.

Can I substitute the half-and-half? You can use heavy cream for a richer sauce or milk for a lighter version, but the texture may vary slightly.

What if I don’t have a meat thermometer? Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by cutting into the thickest piece to check for no pinkness and clear juices.

Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, substitute the butter and half-and-half with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter and coconut cream.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together? Stir the pasta immediately after adding it to the Instant Pot and ensure it’s fully submerged in water.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe? Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms are great additions that complement the Cajun flavors.

More Easy Instant Pot Recipes

• Instant Pot Homemade Applesauce
• INSTANT POT SWEET POTATO PUDDING
• EASY INSTANT POT COPYCAT BISTRO PANERA FRENCH ONION SOUP
• INSTANT POT PANERA CREAMY TOMATO SOUP COPYCAT RECIPE
• INSTANT POT BLUEBERRY CAKE