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
Main Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes
- 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 Cajun Seasoning and Chicken: Combine smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Cube the chicken breast and toss it with the Cajun seasoning until fully coated.
- Cook Chicken: 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 cubes and cook for a couple of minutes on each side, just until outside is browned but not cooked through.
- Sauté Onion: Add diced yellow onion to the skillet and sauté for about 2 minutes until the onion softens and releases moisture that lifts browned bits from the skillet bottom.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, fire roasted diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Mix all ingredients evenly and cover the skillet with a lid, bringing the broth to a boil.
- Simmer Pasta: Reduce heat to medium-low and let the pasta simmer, uncovered, for approximately 10 minutes. Stir every couple of minutes until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened to a creamy consistency.
- Add Cream Cheese and Finish: Drop chunks of cream cheese into the skillet and stir until it melts and incorporates into the sauce, making it rich and creamy. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Notes
- This recipe can be adapted with different pasta shapes if penne is unavailable.
- For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper quantity to taste.
- Using fire roasted tomatoes adds a smoky depth to the sauce, but you can substitute regular diced tomatoes if needed.
- Be sure to stir the pasta frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun