Description
This Simple Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Dinner is a bold, comforting one-pot meal made with tender chicken, smoky Cajun spices, pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce that comes together fast and tastes incredible.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 12 ounces penne pasta or other short pasta
- 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 2 to 3 green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl.
- Toss chicken pieces with the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in pasta, fire-roasted tomatoes with juices, and chicken broth.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and cover.
- Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
- Add cream cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and garnish with green onions before serving.
Notes
Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Cajun