One-Pot Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Hearty, flavorful pasta dinner made in one pot

This one-pot spicy Cajun chicken pasta delivers big flavor without breaking the bank. Combining pantry staples like pasta and canned tomatoes with simple spices and chicken, it’s a satisfying meal that’s quick to make and easy to clean up.

Ingredients

• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried 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 for garnish)

Instructions

1. Mix smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss with the spice mix until evenly coated.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes, turning to brown on all sides without fully cooking through.
3. Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes until it softens and releases moisture, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
4. Pour in the uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Stir to combine, then cover and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes, until pasta is tender and liquid has thickened slightly.
6. Cube the cream cheese and stir it into the pasta until melted and creamy. Sprinkle with sliced green onions before serving.

Nutrition

This recipe works out to about 420 calories per serving. For the full breakdown, protein, carbs, and fat included, save it in the Forkful app: nutrition is calculated automatically from the ingredient list.

More meal plans recipes

Meal Plans

Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili with Crispy Tortilla Chips

Prep 15 min · Cook 4 hr · Serves 6

Meal Plans

Hearty Shepherd’s Pie with Crispy Potato Topping

Prep 15 min · Cook 1 hr 10 min · Serves 5

Meal Plans

Hearty Chicken Pot Pie with Puff Pastry

Prep 15 min · Cook 1 hr · Serves 4

Meal Plans

Slow Cooker Sunday Pot Roast

Prep 10 min · Cook 8 hr · Serves 8