One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe | Spicy & Cheesy

I’ve always loved dishes that are quick, flavorful, and leave minimal cleanup. Recently, I tried making a One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe, and wow—it instantly became a favorite. The smoky, spicy flavors of Cajun seasoning combined with tender chicken, rich creaminess, and perfectly cooked pasta make every bite irresistible.

It’s perfect for weeknights when I want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Let me walk you through how to make this delicious dish step by step. You can also enjoy similar baked treats like Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread alongside this pasta for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for this creamy Cajun chicken pasta:

• 2 tsp smoked paprika – adds a smoky depth that makes the pasta flavorful.
• 1 tsp dried oregano – brings a subtle earthy aroma.
• 1 tsp dried thyme – balances the spices with a light herbal note.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder – essential for that classic savory taste.
• 1/2 tsp onion powder – enhances sweetness and depth.
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper – adjust for desired heat level.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper – fresh cracked is ideal.
• 1/4 tsp salt – balances all flavors.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – helps sear the chicken without burning.
• 1 tbsp butter – adds richness to the sauce; can use all oil for lighter option.
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
• 1 small yellow onion – diced for a sweet, earthy flavor.
• 8 oz penne pasta – cooks evenly in the one-pot method; avoid long noodles.
• 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes – adds smoky, tangy notes.
• 2 cups chicken broth – creates a rich, flavorful sauce.
• 4 oz cream cheese – makes the pasta creamy and luxurious.
• 2 green onions – sliced for garnish and freshness.

Note: several servings. You can also enjoy a refreshing drink like Blackberry Lemonade to complement this pasta.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are some options:

• Dairy-free: Replace cream cheese with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
• Lighter option: Skip the butter or use low-fat cream cheese.
• Extra protein: Add shrimp or cooked bacon for an umami boost.
• Adjust heat: Reduce or omit cayenne pepper for a milder version.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan – perfect for cooking chicken, veggies, and pasta together.
• Wooden spoon – to stir ingredients evenly.
• Chef’s knife – for chopping chicken and vegetables.
• Measuring spoons & cups – ensure the perfect spice balance.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Prepare the Cajun Seasoning

Mix smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. This will be the flavor base for your chicken and sauce.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and sprinkle with half of the Cajun seasoning. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté the Onion

Add diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. The onions bring out natural sweetness that balances the spicy Cajun flavor.

Add Pasta and Liquids

Stir in uncooked pasta, fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, and remaining Cajun seasoning. Bring to a simmer and cook until pasta is tender, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Incorporate Cream Cheese

Lower heat and add cream cheese. Stir until fully melted and combined, creating a rich and creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta and chicken.

Finish and Garnish

Sprinkle sliced green onions over the pasta for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately while hot.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

• I like to use fresh cream cheese for a smoother sauce.
• I always taste and adjust seasoning at the end—sometimes a pinch more salt or cayenne makes a big difference.
• For extra smoky flavor, a dash of smoked paprika on top before serving works wonders.
• Letting the pasta rest 2 minutes off the heat allows the sauce to thicken slightly.
  How to Serve One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe?

This pasta shines as a main dish. I like to pair it with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread. For presentation, sprinkle extra green onions or a light dusting of Parmesan cheese on top to make it look restaurant-worthy.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate per serving:

• Calories: 460 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 18g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps flavors fresh and pasta from drying out.

Freezing

Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Make sure the pasta is slightly undercooked if freezing, so it doesn’t become mushy when reheated.

Reheating

Warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore creaminess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This dish has so many perks:

• Quick and easy – all cooked in one pot, perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful – smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors combine beautifully.
• Versatile – customize heat level or swap proteins easily.
• Budget-friendly – feeds a family for under $10.
• Minimal cleanup – one pot, one delicious meal, no fuss.

Ben Carraoli

One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

I’ve always loved dishes that are quick, flavorful, and leave minimal cleanup. Recently, I tried making a one-pot creamy Cajun chicken pasta, and wow—it instantly became a favorite. The smoky, spicy flavors of Cajun seasoning combined with tender chicken, rich creaminess, and perfectly cooked pasta make every bite irresistible.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tsp smoked paprika – adds a smoky depth that makes the pasta flavorful.
• 1 tsp dried oregano – brings a subtle earthy aroma.
• 1 tsp dried thyme – balances the spices with a light herbal note.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder – essential for that classic savory taste.
• 1/2 tsp onion powder – enhances sweetness and depth.
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper – adjust for desired heat level.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper – fresh cracked is ideal.
• 1/4 tsp salt – balances all flavors.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – helps sear the chicken without burning.
• 1 tbsp butter – adds richness to the sauce; can use all oil for lighter option.
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
• 1 small yellow onion – diced for a sweet earthy flavor.
• 8 oz penne pasta – cooks evenly in the one-pot method; avoid long noodles.
• 1 14.5 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes – adds smoky, tangy notes.
• 2 cups chicken broth – creates a rich flavorful sauce.
• 4 oz cream cheese – makes the pasta creamy and luxurious.
• 2 green onions – sliced for garnish and freshness.

Method

 

1. Mix smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. This will be the flavor base for your chicken and sauce.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and sprinkle with half of the Cajun seasoning. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. The onions bring out natural sweetness that balances the spicy Cajun flavor.
4. Stir in uncooked pasta, fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, and remaining Cajun seasoning. Bring to a simmer and cook until pasta is tender, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Lower heat and add cream cheese. Stir until fully melted and combined, creating a rich and creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta and chicken.
6. Sprinkle sliced green onions over the pasta for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

• I like to use fresh cream cheese for a smoother sauce.
• I always taste and adjust seasoning at the end—sometimes a pinch more salt or cayenne makes a big difference.
• For extra smoky flavor, a dash of smoked paprika on top before serving works wonders.
• Letting the pasta rest 2 minutes off the heat allows the sauce to thicken slightly.