If you are looking for a bold, comforting dinner that does not leave you with a sink full of dishes, this Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in One Pot is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together tender Cajun-spiced chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich creamy sauce all in a single pan, making it ideal for busy weeknights and cozy family meals alike.
This dish is inspired by classic Cajun flavors but adapted for everyday cooking. It is mildly spicy, deeply savory, and creamy without being heavy. Best of all, everything cooks in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
There are many reasons this recipe becomes a repeat favorite after just one try.
First, it is truly a one-pot meal. The chicken, pasta, and sauce all cook together, which allows the flavors to build layer by layer. The pasta absorbs the seasoned broth as it cooks, giving every bite extra depth.
Second, the Cajun seasoning delivers big flavor using simple pantry spices. You get smokiness from paprika, warmth from thyme and oregano, and just enough heat from cayenne to keep things interesting without overpowering the dish.
Third, this recipe is flexible. You can easily adjust the spice level, swap the protein, or add vegetables you already have on hand. It is also family-friendly and budget-conscious, making it a practical choice for weeknight cooking.
Finally, the creamy sauce ties everything together beautifully. Cream cheese melts into the broth to create a silky texture that coats the pasta and chicken perfectly, giving you restaurant-style results at home.
Ingredients for Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
This recipe uses straightforward ingredients that are easy to find and affordable. Everything is measured in US units for convenience.
Cajun Seasoning Mix
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 12 ounces dry penne pasta
- 1 can, 14.5 ounces, fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes
For Garnish
- 2 to 3 green onions, sliced
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it entirely. The recipe will still be flavorful without extra heat.
Chicken thighs can replace chicken breast if you prefer darker meat. They stay juicy and add richness to the dish.
If you do not have penne pasta, other short pasta shapes like rotini, rigatoni, or shells work well. Avoid long pasta since it does not cook evenly in this method.
For a lighter option, you can substitute reduced-fat cream cheese. The sauce will be slightly thinner but still creamy.
This recipe contains no pork or alcohol, making it naturally family-friendly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to achieve perfectly cooked pasta and a creamy, well-balanced sauce.
Step 1: Mix the Cajun Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the spices are evenly distributed. This seasoning blend is the flavor foundation of the dish.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Place the diced chicken breast in a large bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the chicken and toss until every piece is well coated. This ensures the chicken develops bold flavor as it cooks.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter together in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and begins to foam slightly, add the seasoned chicken.
Cook the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is lightly browned on the outside. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage since it will continue cooking later.
Step 4: Add the Onion
Add the diced onion to the skillet with the chicken. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion begins to soften and turn translucent. The onion will absorb the spices and add sweetness to balance the heat.
Step 5: Add Pasta, Tomatoes, and Broth
Pour the dry penne pasta into the skillet, followed by the fire-roasted diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 6: Simmer Until Pasta Is Tender
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the pasta simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed or thickened into a sauce.
Step 7: Make It Creamy
Add the cubed cream cheese to the skillet. Stir gently until the cream cheese melts completely into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. You can add a pinch of salt or a dash of black pepper to suit your preference.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle sliced green onions over the top. Serve hot and enjoy straight from the pan.
Pro Tips for Success
- Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces so it cooks at the same rate.
- Stir the pasta occasionally while simmering to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Keep the heat at a gentle simmer once boiling to avoid overcooking the pasta.
- Let the cream cheese soften slightly before adding it to help it melt smoothly.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of warm broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Flavor Variations
This recipe is easy to customize depending on your preferences and what you have available.
Add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onion for extra vegetables and texture.
Stir in a handful of fresh spinach at the end and let it wilt into the sauce for added color and nutrients.
Swap chicken for shrimp. Add the shrimp during the last 5 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
Use a Cajun seasoning blend with smoked chili powder for deeper heat and smokiness.
Finish with a small squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
For a lighter plate, pair with steamed green beans or roasted broccoli.
This dish also works well as a standalone meal thanks to its balance of protein, carbs, and fat.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freezing is possible, but creamy sauces can change texture slightly. If freezing, let the pasta cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 36 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 820 mg |
Values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.
FAQ About Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Can I make this recipe less spicy?
Yes, you can easily control the heat level. Reduce the cayenne pepper or leave it out completely. You can also add a little extra cream cheese to mellow the spice if needed.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Short pasta shapes work best for one-pot recipes. Penne, rotini, shells, or rigatoni are all good choices. Cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness as you go.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If the sauce becomes too thick, simply stir in a few tablespoons of warm chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. The sauce will loosen as it warms.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead and reheated. The flavors often deepen overnight. Reheat gently and add liquid if needed to maintain creaminess.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It stores well and reheats nicely, making it a great option for lunches throughout the week.
Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in One Pot
Equipment
- large deep skillet or Dutch oven
- wooden spoon
- measuring spoons
- knife
- cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 12 oz dry penne pasta
- 14.5 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 2–3 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Toss the diced chicken with the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook 4 to 5 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add the diced onion and cook 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the penne pasta, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
- Add cream cheese and stir until fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Remove from heat, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve hot.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
This Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in One Pot is proof that bold flavor does not require complicated steps or a long ingredient list. With minimal prep, simple pantry spices, and one skillet, you can create a comforting meal that feels special enough for guests yet easy enough for a busy weeknight.
Whether you are cooking for your family or just want a satisfying dinner with minimal cleanup, this recipe delivers every time. Once you try it, it is likely to become a regular part of your meal rotation.
