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
Chicken Pasta
- 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 the Cajun seasoning and chicken: Combine all the Cajun seasoning ingredients in a small bowl. Cut the chicken breast into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes, then toss the chicken with the seasoning to coat evenly.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat until very hot and the butter is melted and foamy. Add the seasoned chicken cubes and cook for 2 minutes on each side or until the exterior develops some color. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
- Sauté the onion: Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet and cook for about 2 more minutes until the onion softens and releases moisture, which helps dissolve any browned bits on the pan bottom.
- Add pasta and liquids: Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, fire roasted diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth into the skillet. Mix well to evenly combine all ingredients. Cover the skillet with a lid and bring the broth to a boil.
- Simmer the pasta: Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and let the pasta simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes. Stir every couple of minutes until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened to a sauce consistency.
- Finish with cream cheese and garnish: Add chunks of cream cheese to the skillet and stir until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. Sprinkle sliced green onions on top and serve immediately.
Notes
- To make this dish spicier, increase the cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute penne pasta with other short pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli.
- For a dairy-free version, replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative or coconut cream.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels if desired.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
