Looking for a bold, comforting dinner that doesn’t destroy your kitchen? This One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta brings creamy richness, smoky heat, and easy cleanup all in one pan. Perfect for busy nights, this flavorful dish combines juicy chicken, aromatic spices, and velvety sauce with pasta cooked right in the skillet. Whether you’re craving spicy comfort food or need a fast family meal, this one-pot wonder hits every note.
Table of Contents
Why This One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Is a Must-Try
This isn’t just any pasta — it’s an all-in-one solution for dinner with minimal dishes and maximum flavor. The spicy Cajun seasoning blends with smoky fire-roasted tomatoes and cream cheese for a sauce that’s as rich as it is zesty. It’s budget-friendly, customizable, and ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight cooking. Plus, it’s made with pantry staples and adaptable to different heat levels or dietary preferences.
Flavor-Packed Ingredients That Make This Dish Shine
- Chicken Breast: Lean, protein-rich, and perfect for soaking up that Cajun spice
- Smoked Paprika: Adds depth with a rich, smoky aroma
- Oregano & Thyme: Herbaceous notes that balance the bold spices
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Layered flavor in every bite
- Cayenne Pepper: Delivers that signature Cajun heat
- Penne Pasta: Holds the creamy sauce beautifully — ideal for one-pot meals
- Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: Infuse the dish with smoky, tangy richness
- Chicken Broth: The savory base that ties all flavors together
- Cream Cheese: Melts into a luscious, velvety sauce
- Green Onions: Bright, fresh finish to balance the richness
- Olive Oil & Butter: Create a flavorful base for sautéing the chicken and onions
- Yellow Onion: Adds natural sweetness and texture
Smart Swaps and Custom Options
- Chicken Thighs instead of Breasts: For extra juiciness and flavor
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based chicken or mushrooms, veggie broth, and dairy-free cream cheese
- No Cream Cheese?: Sub in ¼ cup heavy cream or ½ cup half-and-half for a slightly lighter sauce
- Different Pasta Shapes: Try rotini, ziti, or rigatoni — just avoid long noodles like spaghetti
- Lower Heat Option: Reduce or omit cayenne pepper to make it milder without sacrificing flavor
Step-by-Step: How to Make One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Mix the Cajun Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, and salt. - Season the Chicken
Cube the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss with the Cajun seasoning until well-coated. - Brown the Chicken
In a deep skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high. Add the seasoned chicken and sauté for a few minutes until lightly browned. Don’t worry about cooking it through yet. - Add the Onion
Stir in the diced yellow onion and cook for 2 more minutes. The moisture will help deglaze the pan and lift flavorful browned bits. - Simmer with Pasta and Broth
Add uncooked penne pasta, fire-roasted tomatoes (with juices), and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring to a boil. - Cover and Cook
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should become tender and the sauce thick. - Stir in Cream Cheese
Cut cream cheese into chunks and stir into the pasta until melted and creamy. - Garnish and Serve
Top with sliced green onions for a burst of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the spicy, creamy goodness!
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Watch the Heat: Adjust cayenne to your spice tolerance
- Deglaze the Pan: Let onion moisture lift flavor from the bottom of the pan
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Just brown it at first — it will cook fully during simmering
- Keep Stirring: Stir every few minutes to prevent pasta from sticking or burning
- Use a Deep Skillet: A 4-quart pan works best to hold everything comfortably
Serve It Up: Pairing Ideas and Recipe Variations
- Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms in the last 5 minutes
- Top It Off: Crumbled bacon, shredded Parmesan, or fresh parsley can add texture and flavor
- Shrimp Twist: Swap half the chicken for shrimp added in the last 5 minutes of cooking
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne and ensure broth and seasoning are gluten-free
- Low-Dairy Version: Use a touch of olive oil and chicken broth in place of cream cheese, or opt for lactose-free alternatives
- Meal Prep Bonus: Makes great leftovers — store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Why Cajun Flavors Work So Well in This One Pot Pasta
Cajun cuisine is all about bold, soulful flavor, and it shines in this one pot pasta recipe. The seasoning blend features warming spices, herbal notes, and smoky undertones, which pair beautifully with the creamy base. Cooking everything together in one skillet not only saves time but also allows the flavors to fully develop and marry. It’s hearty, satisfying, and endlessly customizable for different seasons or dietary needs.
Whether you’re serving this One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta to a hungry family or prepping quick meals for the week, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Wrapping It All Up: Why One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Deserves a Spot in Your Rotation
Creamy, spicy, and outrageously satisfying, One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is more than just a quick dinner fix — it’s a flavorful escape with every bite. It brings together the best of Southern comfort and one-pan convenience, making it ideal for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or casual entertaining. With easy customizations and bold ingredients, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for spicy food lovers and comfort food fans alike.
From the smoky heat of Cajun spices to the velvety richness of cream cheese, this pasta is built to impress without the stress. Once you make it, it’s bound to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions About One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Can I make this One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! This dish reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
Is One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta very spicy?
It can be, depending on your cayenne pepper usage. The recipe offers a moderate level of heat, but you can reduce the cayenne or omit it entirely for a milder version. You can also add extra cream cheese or a splash of cream to mellow the spice.
What can I serve with Cajun Chicken Pasta?
Since this is a complete meal, it’s great on its own. But for a more balanced plate, serve it with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or some homemade garlic bread. A chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the spice perfectly.
More Relevant Recipes
- Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta: If you loved the bold spice and creamy texture of Cajun chicken pasta, this shrimp version brings the same smoky Cajun flair with tender shrimp instead. It’s equally creamy, quick, and perfect for seafood lovers.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken – Creamy Delight: This dish offers a milder, garlicky alternative with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Still comforting and one-pan friendly, it’s ideal for those who enjoy creamy chicken pastas with less heat.
- Creamy and Cheesy Beef Goulash: Packed with hearty flavor and cheesy goodness, this goulash recipe offers a similar creamy, pasta-based comfort meal with a beefy twist. It’s great for those looking to explore beyond Cajun while sticking to one-pot ease.
One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
This One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a bold, creamy, and spicy dinner made in a single skillet. Packed with tender chicken, smoky Cajun spices, and velvety cream cheese, it’s the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried 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
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cubed)
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 8 oz (1/2 lb) penne pasta (uncooked)
- 15 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 3 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt to make the Cajun seasoning.
- Cut the chicken breast into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes and toss them in the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until hot and foamy.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, just until browned. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for about 2 more minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, fire-roasted diced tomatoes with juice, and chicken broth. Mix well.
- Cover the skillet, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Add the cream cheese in small chunks and stir until fully melted into the sauce.
- Top with sliced green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.
- Heavy cream or half-and-half can substitute cream cheese if needed.
- Stir frequently to prevent pasta from sticking to the pan.
- Use a large (4-quart) deep skillet for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 483
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 847mg
- Fat: 14.6g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51.5g
- Fiber: 3.5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg