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One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a 30-minute dinner with tender chicken, penne, and smoky Cajun spices.
The pasta cooks in one skillet with fire-roasted tomatoes and chicken broth.
Cream cheese creates a rich, silky sauce, finished with fresh green onions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Cajun-Inspired, American

Ingredients
  

Cajun Seasoning

  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Chicken Pasta

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon 15 g butter
  • 1 lb 450 g boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 1 yellow onion diced
  • ½ lb 230 g uncooked penne pasta
  • 15 oz 400 g fire-roasted diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 2 cups 500 ml chicken broth
  • 2 oz 60 g cream cheese
  • 3 green onions sliced

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Cajun seasoning

  • In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the spices are evenly mixed.

Step 2: Season the chicken

  • Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized cubes, approximately ½ to ¾ inch thick.
  • Place the chicken in a mixing bowl, sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over it, and toss until every piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Sear the chicken

  • Add the olive oil and butter to a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Once the butter has melted and begins to foam, add the seasoned chicken in an even layer.
  • Cook for approximately 2–3 minutes per side, allowing the outside to develop a golden, lightly browned crust.
  • The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage because it will finish cooking with the pasta.

Step 4: Sauté the onion

  • Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet with the chicken.
  • Cook for approximately 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to soften.
  • As the onion releases moisture, gently scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen the flavorful browned bits left behind by the chicken.

Step 5: Add the pasta and liquids

  • Add the uncooked penne pasta, fire-roasted diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth directly to the skillet.
  • Stir gently until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  • The broth should surround most of the pasta, allowing it to absorb the seasoned liquid as it cooks.

Step 6: Simmer until tender

  • Cover the skillet with a lid and bring the liquid to a boil.
  • Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the pasta to simmer for approximately 10 minutes.
  • Stir every couple of minutes to prevent sticking and ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
  • Continue cooking until the penne is tender, the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the remaining liquid has thickened into a flavorful sauce.
  • If the pasta needs more time, add a small splash of broth or water and continue simmering.

Step 7: Make the sauce creamy

  • Cut the cream cheese into small chunks and add them to the skillet.
  • Stir gently until the cream cheese melts completely and combines with the tomato juices, chicken broth, and Cajun spices.
  • The sauce should become smooth, creamy, and lightly orange-red.

Step 8: Garnish and serve

  • Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the finished One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta.
  • Serve immediately while the sauce is warm and creamy.

Notes

Pasta variations: Penne works especially well because its hollow shape captures the creamy sauce. Rigatoni, rotini, or fusilli can also be used, although cooking times and liquid requirements may vary.
Protein swaps: Boneless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative to chicken breast. They provide a slightly richer flavor and remain tender during simmering.
Extra vegetables: Add diced red bell pepper with the onion or stir fresh spinach into the pasta during the final few minutes of cooking.
Creamier texture: Add an extra tablespoon of cream cheese if you prefer a thicker, richer sauce.
Serving suggestions: Pair this Cajun chicken penne pasta with a fresh green salad, roasted broccoli, steamed green beans, or warm garlic bread.
For a colorful finishing touch, sprinkle additional sliced green onions over each serving.