The Inspiration for a Perfect Weeknight Meal
My Favorite is One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta and As a busy cook, I know the struggle of juggling a hectic schedule with the desire to put a delicious meal on the table. One day, I was craving something rich and comforting but wanted to keep things simple. I had just returned from the grocery store, and my pantry was stocked with all the essentials for a flavorful dinner. That’s when the idea for my One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta came to me. The thought of a creamy, spicy pasta dish that could be made in just one pot was too appealing to pass up. I knew this recipe would be perfect for those nights when time is tight, but you still want to enjoy a hearty meal.
A Taste of Southern Spice
I began by mixing up my own Cajun seasoning, a blend of smoked paprika, oregano, and thyme with a kick of cayenne pepper. The aroma of the spices brought a warm, comforting feeling to my kitchen. After seasoning the chicken, I seared it in a hot skillet with a bit of olive oil and butter. As the chicken browned, I added diced onions, which sizzled and softened, creating a delicious base for the dish. The whole kitchen filled with mouthwatering scents, promising a meal that would not only satisfy hunger but also bring a bit of Southern charm to our dinner table.
Simplicity Meets Flavor
Once the chicken and onions were ready, I added penne pasta, fire-roasted tomatoes, and chicken broth to the skillet. With just a lid on the pan and a few minutes of simmering, the pasta cooked to perfection, soaking up all those rich, smoky flavors. Adding chunks of cream cheese at the end made the sauce creamy and smooth, turning an easy dish into something truly special. This one-pot meal was not just a time-saver; it was a testament to how simple ingredients could come together to create something comforting and delicious.
A Family Favorite
The first time I served this One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta to my family, it was an instant hit. We gathered around the table, enjoying the creamy pasta with a hint of spice, and I felt a sense of accomplishment. This dish had become a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners. It’s a recipe that fits well into my busy life and allows me to serve something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of how something so simple can bring so much joy to those we love.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting to cook. This includes cutting the chicken into uniform cubes and dicing the onion. This will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
- For the best flavor, let the seasoned chicken sit for a few minutes before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, giving it a richer flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If needed, cook the chicken in batches to ensure it browns properly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than browning.
- Keep an eye on the heat when adding the pasta and broth. A too-high heat can cause the liquid to evaporate too quickly, leaving the pasta undercooked. A too-low heat might make the pasta mushy.
- Make sure to cut the cream cheese into small chunks before adding it to the skillet. This helps it melt more evenly and blend into the sauce.
- Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet. This also helps ensure even cooking and distribution of the sauce.
- If you prefer a milder dish, start with less cayenne pepper and add more to taste. Conversely, for a spicier kick, you can add extra cayenne or red pepper flakes.
One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
4
servings10
minutes20
minutes483
kcal30
minutesGet ready to spice up your weeknight dinners with this One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta! It’s creamy, smoky, and has just the right amount of kick. Perfect for busy nights, this dish uses mostly pantry staples and comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you like it spicy or mild, creamy or not, this recipe is incredibly versatile and sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients
- Cajun Seasoning
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
- Chicken Pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes
1 medium yellow onion diced
8 ounces penne pasta
15 ounces fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with juices)
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 ounces cream cheese cut into chunks
3 green onions thinly sliced
Directions
- Prepare Cajun Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
- Season Chicken: Cut the chicken into cubes and place in a bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
- Simmer Pasta: Cover the skillet with a lid and bring the broth to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir every couple of minutes until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened into a sauce.
- Add Cream Cheese: Add chunks of cream cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and well incorporated into the sauce.
- Serve: Top the pasta with sliced green onions and serve hot.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- nonstick pan
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 483kcal
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Potassium: 700mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Vitamin A: 1500IU
- Vitamin C: 15mg
- Calcium: 100mg
- Iron: 3mg
FAQ-One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so you might need to add a splash of chicken broth when reheating.
Can I freeze One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth if needed.
What can I substitute for cream cheese if I want a dairy-free version?
You can use 1/4 cup of coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. For a less creamy texture, use a splash of almond or cashew milk instead.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works well, you can substitute it with other short pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or even macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta shape.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients should be naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure.
