One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
User Reviews
4.6
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
48265 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Dinner
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Cuisine
American
One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Description
One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta features bite-sized chicken breast pieces coated with a spice blend of smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, and cayenne for a balanced smoky and mildly spicy flavor. The chicken is quickly browned with butter and olive oil alongside diced onions to soften and release sweetness. Adding uncooked penne pasta along with fire-roasted diced tomatoes and chicken broth creates a saucy base that simmers together until the pasta absorbs the liquid. Finally, cream cheese is stirred in for a smooth, creamy texture that ties the dish together.
The dish presents tender chunks of chicken with a creamy, slightly tangy sauce enriched by the diced tomatoes and layering of herbs and spices. The pasta cooks to a tender consistency within the same pot, soaking up the broth’s flavors. It provides an all-in-one meal that balances protein, carbs, and seasoning without extra pots or pans.
According to the notes, maintaining a gentle simmer is key to prevent the pasta from sticking and burning. Frequent stirring helps ensure even cooking and a well-coated sauce. Using a deep skillet or pan with at least a 4-quart capacity prevents overflow and aids in even heat distribution.
Ingredients
Cajun Seasoning
- 2 tsp smoked paprika $0.20
- 1 tsp oregano $0.10
- 1 tsp thyme $0.10
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder $0.05
- 1/2 tsp onion powder $0.05
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper $0.03
- 1/4 tsp black pepper $0.02
- 1/4 tsp salt $0.02
Chicken Pasta
- 1 Tbsp olive oil $0.16
- 1 Tbsp butter $0.13
- 1 lb. chicken breast $5.47, boneless, skinless
- 1 yellow onion $0.32, diced
- 1/2 lb. penne pasta $0.75, uncooked
- 15 oz. diced tomatoes $1.00, fire roasted
- 2 cups chicken broth $0.26
- 2 oz. cream cheese $0.50
- 3 green onion $0.25, sliced
Instructions
- Combine the ingredients for the Cajun seasoning in a small bowl. Cut the chicken into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes. Place the cubed chicken in a bowl, pour the Cajun seasoning over top, and stir to coat the chicken in spices.
- Add the olive oil and butter to a large deep skillet. Heat the oil and butter over medium-high until the skillet is very hot and the butter is melted and foamy. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for a couple minutes on each side, or just until the outside gets some color. The chicken does not need to be cooked through at this point.
- Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet and continue to sauté for about 2 minutes more, or just until the onion begins to soften. Allow the moisture from the onion to dissolve any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Next, add the pasta, fire roasted diced tomatoes (with the juices), and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir just until everything is evenly combined, then place a lid on top and allow the broth to come up to a boil.
- Once boiling, turn the heat down to medium-low and let the pasta simmer for about ten minutes, stirring every couple of minutes, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is thick and saucy.
- Add the cream cheese to the skillet in chunks, then stir until it has melted into the sauce. Top the pasta with sliced green onions and serve.
Notes
- Use a deep skillet with at least 4-quart capacity for even cooking and to avoid overflow.
- Adjust heat as needed to keep the broth at a gentle simmer throughout cooking.
- Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pan.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 48265 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1Serving | |
| Calories | 482.65kcal | 24% |
| Carbohydrates | 51.53g | 17% |
| Protein | 34.95g | 70% |
| Fat | 14.58g | 22% |
| Sodium | 847.23mg | 35% |
| Fiber | 3.45g | 14% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.6
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