Description
This One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and comforting meal combining tender Cajun-spiced chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce all cooked together in a single skillet for easy cleanup. The smoky paprika and aromatic herbs give the dish a bold Cajun flair balanced by the creaminess of cream cheese and a fresh pop from green onions.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Cajun Seasoning
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
Chicken Pasta
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1/2 lb. penne pasta (uncooked)
- 15 oz. fire roasted diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 oz. cream cheese, cut into chunks
- 3 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare Cajun Seasoning and Chicken: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt to create the Cajun seasoning. Cut the chicken breasts into cubes and toss with the seasoning until evenly coated.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat until the butter melts and becomes foamy. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for a few minutes on each side until the chicken pieces develop color but are not fully cooked through.
- Sauté Onion: Add diced yellow onion to the skillet and sauté for about 2 minutes until the onion softens, allowing its moisture to lift any browned bits from the skillet bottom for added flavor.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, fire roasted diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Mix gently to combine all ingredients evenly, then cover with a lid.
- Simmer Pasta: Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
- Finish with Cream Cheese: Add cream cheese chunks to the skillet and stir until fully melted and incorporated into a creamy sauce coating the pasta and chicken.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top and serve the pasta hot.
Notes
- Use a 4-quart deep skillet for optimal cooking space.
- Adjust heat as necessary to maintain a gentle simmer and prevent the pasta from sticking.
- Stir frequently while simmering to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
