Dinner

One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Byreem everly January 7, 2026January 7, 2026

Introduction

This One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful, comforting dish that comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight meal. Packed with tender chicken, smoky spices, and a rich creamy sauce, it’s perfect for those who love a little kick in their pasta.

A silver pan filled with a creamy pasta dish, showing penne pasta coated in a light orange sauce mixed with chunks of browned chicken. Fresh green chopped herbs or scallions are sprinkled over the top, adding bright green spots across the dish. A wooden spoon is partially stirring the pasta, resting inside the pan. The pan sits on a white marbled surface with a folded black and white striped cloth beside it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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
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

Step 1: Combine smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl to create the Cajun seasoning. Cut the chicken into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes and toss with the seasoning until well coated.
Step 2: Heat olive oil and butter in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat until hot and butter is melted and foamy. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for a few minutes on each side just until the outside is browned; the chicken does not need to be fully cooked yet.
Step 3: Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet and sauté for about 2 minutes, until the onion softens. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits for extra flavor.
Step 4: Stir in the penne pasta, fire roasted diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Mix until combined, then cover with a lid and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Reduce heat to medium-low and let the pasta simmer, uncovered, for about 10 minutes. Stir every couple of minutes to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 6: Add the cream cheese in chunks to the skillet and stir until it melts into a creamy sauce. Sprinkle the sliced green onions on top and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
Swap penne for other pasta shapes like rigatoni or rotini if preferred.
Add bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions for extra veggies.
Use smoked sausage instead of chicken for a different protein option.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

A top view of a large silver pan filled with creamy pasta dish, showing penne pasta in a light brown sauce mixed with chunks of cooked chicken pieces and garnished with chopped green onions scattered evenly on top. A wooden spoon rests inside the pan on the right side, partly covered with the sauce. The pan sits on a white marbled surface with a black and white striped cloth partially visible under the handle. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the penne pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta and check that your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.

Is this dish spicy?

This pasta has a moderate level of heat from the cayenne pepper and Cajun seasoning, but you can adjust the spice by reducing or omitting the cayenne according to your preference.