Ingredients
Cajun Seasoning
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp 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
Main Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1/2 lb penne pasta (uncooked)
- 15 oz fire roasted diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 3 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare Cajun Seasoning and Chicken: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt to create the Cajun seasoning. Cut the chicken breasts into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes. Toss the chicken pieces in the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat until hot and the butter is foamy. Add the seasoned chicken cubes and cook for a few minutes on each side until the exterior develops color. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
- Sauté the Onion: Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for about 2 minutes, allowing the onion to soften. This step also helps dissolve any browned bits from the skillet bottom, enhancing flavor.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Stir in uncooked penne pasta, fire roasted diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Mix everything gently to combine evenly. Cover the skillet with a lid and bring the liquid to a boil.
- Simmer Pasta: Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low. Let the pasta simmer, stirring every couple of minutes for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened into a sauce.
- Melt Cream Cheese and Finish: Add chunks of cream cheese to the skillet and stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. Garnish the finished pasta with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Using fire roasted tomatoes adds a subtle smoky flavor; plain diced tomatoes can be used if unavailable.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the pasta to simmer a few minutes longer uncovered to reduce excess liquid.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative or omit entirely, although this will change the creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
