Picture this: a whirlwind evening, kids clamoring for attention, the cat plotting world domination from atop the fridge, and you—desperately seeking a dinner savior. Enter the Creamy Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta, a dish that’s as much a hero as a meal.
With the perfect blend of creamy indulgence and a spicy kick, it’s like a warm hug for your taste buds, promising solace after a chaotic day. I stumbled upon this gem while flipping through channels—caught between a rerun of Friends and the latest news on Taylor Swift’s concert tour. It’s quick, it’s comforting, and it might just be the reason you find a moment of peace amid the delightful chaos of life.
So, grab your spatula, and let’s get this deliciousness underway!
Steps
- Prepare the Cajun seasoning by mixing together smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Cut the chicken breasts into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes and coat them with the spice mix.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until hot and the butter is foamy. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for a few minutes on each side until they start to brown but are not fully cooked through.
- Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet and sauté for a couple of minutes until the onion starts to soften. The onion’s moisture will help lift any browned bits from the skillet.
- Stir in uncooked penne pasta, fire-roasted diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Mix everything together, cover the skillet, and bring the broth to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the pasta simmer for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid thickens into a sauce.
- Add chunks of cream cheese to the skillet and stir until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. Top with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1/2 pound penne pasta (uncooked)
- 15 ounces fire roasted diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 ounces cream cheese
- 3 green onions, sliced
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1930.6 kcal | Carbohydrates: 206.12 g | Protein: 139.8 g | Fat: 58.32 g | Sodium: 3388.92 mg | Fiber: 13.8 g
FAQ
- What can I use as a substitute if I don’t have cream cheese?
- You can replace cream cheese with a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half. Use about 1/4 cup of heavy cream or 1/2 cup of half-and-half for a similar creamy texture. Alternatively, you can omit the cream altogether if you prefer a non-creamy version of the dish.
- How can I adjust the spiciness of the Cajun Chicken Pasta?
- The spiciness can be modified by changing the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning. Use less cayenne for a milder dish, or omit it entirely if you want to avoid spice. This allows you to tailor the heat level to your preference.
- Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use any short pasta shape, such as rigatoni or fusilli, instead of penne. However, it’s best to avoid longer noodles, as they may not cook as evenly in the one-pot method.
- What other ingredients can I add to enhance the dish?
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. You could also include shrimp either as an addition or a substitute for chicken to make the dish even more special.
- What can I serve with Cajun Chicken Pasta to complete the meal?
- This dish is satisfying on its own, but you can complement it with a side salad or bread. A classic Caesar salad enhances the creaminess, while homestyle cornbread adds a sweet contrast to the spicy flavors.
Tips
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning, or omit it entirely for a non-spicy version.
- Creaminess Options: For a creamy pasta, add cream cheese as suggested. However, if you want a lighter option, substitute with a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half, or skip the creaminess altogether for a different flavor profile.
- Enhance the Flavor: Consider adding a dash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors or top the dish with cooked bacon or Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of taste.
- Prevent Sticking: Stir the pasta frequently while it simmers to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensure even cooking.
Equipment
- Deep Skillet (4-quart capacity) – Essential for cooking the entire dish in one pot. If you don’t already have a large skillet, this is a key piece of equipment.
- Stainless Steel Pots and Pans – While you may already have these, having a high-quality set can make cooking more efficient and enjoyable.
- White Cutting Boards – Useful for prepping ingredients like chicken and onions. If you need a dedicated cutting board for meats, this might be a good addition to your kitchen.
- Glass Mixing Bowls – Handy for mixing the Cajun seasoning and preparing other ingredients.