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.

One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta – Easy Spicy Recipe

Name: One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired
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

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

Scale

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

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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