Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

A Weeknight Favorite

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is my go-to dish for those busy weeknights when you need a meal that’s both flavorful and quick. Picture this: a kitchen filled with the spicy aroma of Cajun seasoning mingling with the creamy richness of cream cheese. As I toss the perfectly seasoned chicken into the skillet, I can’t help but marvel at how a simple one-pot meal can bring so much joy. The Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta not only simplifies dinner but also turns a hectic evening into a delightful culinary experience.

Simple Yet Flavorful

As the chicken sizzles and turns golden, I add the penne pasta and fire-roasted tomatoes, letting them soak up all those bold Cajun flavors. The magic happens when the chicken broth and cream cheese meld together to create a velvety sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. The Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta comes together effortlessly, leaving me with minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction. It’s amazing how something so comforting can be so easy to prepare.

A Perfect Presentation

Once the pasta is tender and coated in that luscious sauce, I sprinkle sliced green onions on top. The Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is ready to serve, and I’m always impressed by how a dish so simple can look so elegant. It’s a meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day.

Versatility and Satisfaction

The beauty of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta lies in its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a quick meal for yourself, this dish is sure to please. It’s a reminder that with just a few ingredients and a little bit of Cajun flair, you can turn an ordinary evening into something special.

Chef’s Notes- Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Enhance Flavor: For a richer taste, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine after browning the chicken and before adding the onions. This will lift any flavorful bits stuck to the pan and add depth to the sauce.
• Consistency Check: If the sauce becomes too thick while simmering, add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Remember, the sauce will thicken further as it cools.
• Vegetable Boost: Feel free to incorporate vegetables like sliced bell peppers or spinach. Add them to the skillet after the onions have softened and before adding the pasta. This will enhance the dish’s nutrition and flavor profile.
• Pasta Stirring: Stir the pasta occasionally while simmering to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet. This ensures an even coating of the creamy sauce on all the pasta.
• Cheese Options: If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese works great, but you can also use regular cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative if needed. For extra creaminess, consider adding a bit of grated Parmesan cheese at the end.

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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: Main CourseCuisine: Cajun and Creole, Southern RecipesDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

482

kcal

Total time

30

minutes

Dive into the flavors of the South with this One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta! Perfect for those hectic weeknights, this dish combines pantry staples into a deliciously creamy and spicy meal. With just one pot, minimal cleanup, and a burst of Cajun spices, this recipe is a game-changer for your dinner routine. Get ready to impress your family with a meal that’s as easy as it is flavorful!

Ingredients

• Cajun Seasoning

• 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 ground black pepper

• 1/4 tsp sea salt

• Chicken Pasta

• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 Tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into cubes

• 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped

• 8 oz penne pasta (uncooked)

• 15 oz can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with juices)

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 2 oz Neufchâtel cheese (or light cream cheese, cubed)

• 3 green onions thinly sliced

• Alternative Ingredients:

• Chicken Thighs: Substitute with boneless skinless chicken breast.

• Neufchâtel Cheese: Replace with regular cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative.

• Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: Use regular diced tomatoes if unavailable.

• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Substitute with vegetable broth for a different flavor.

Directions

• Prepare Cajun Seasoning – In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, and sea salt. Cut the chicken thighs into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes. Place the cubed chicken in a bowl and coat evenly with the Cajun seasoning.
• Cook Chicken – Heat olive oil and butter in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat until hot and the butter is melted and foamy. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the outside is browned but not fully cooked through. Add the chopped yellow onion to the skillet and sauté for about 2 minutes until it begins to soften and release moisture.
• Combine Ingredients – Add the uncooked penne pasta, fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with juices), and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly. 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, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened into a sauce.
• Garnish and Serve – Add cubed Neufchâtel cheese to the skillet and stir until it melts into the sauce. Top the pasta with sliced green onions and serve immediately.

Equipment

• chef’s knife
• cutting board
• stainless steel cookware set
• Mixing bowls

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 482kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 850mg
• Potassium: 700mg
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 35g
• Vitamin A: 1500IU
• Vitamin C: 15mg
• Calcium: 100mg
• Iron: 3mg

FAQs- Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the chicken thighs. Just be aware that breasts can be a bit drier, so they may need to be cooked carefully to avoid overcooking.

What can I use if I don’t have Neufchâtel cheese?

You can replace Neufchâtel cheese with regular cream cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Each will provide a slightly different texture but will still work well in the recipe.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can make it ahead of time. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid separating the sauce.

How can I make this dish spicier or milder?

To adjust the spice level, increase or decrease the amount of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, use less cayenne or omit it entirely. For extra heat, consider adding a pinch of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

What can I serve with this pasta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables or a simple side of roasted or sautéed greens for a well-rounded meal.