If you love the idea of a comforting, flavorful dinner that comes together with minimal fuss, then you are going to adore this One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s got all the things you want on a busy weeknight: tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luxuriously creamy sauce bursting with bold Cajun spices. The best part? Everything cooks in just one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. This dish is a total winner for anyone craving that rich, homey vibe with a touch of southern charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with several pieces of raw chicken coated in a reddish-brown spice mix, showing a rough, grainy texture of herbs and seasonings evenly spread on the meat. A metal spoon rests inside the bowl, partially submerged under the seasoned chicken. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients for this One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is straightforward, yet crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. Each component plays its part—spices for warmth, cream cheese for silkiness, and fresh vegetables for a pop of brightness.

Smoked paprika (2 tsp): Adds a smoky depth that’s essential for that true Cajun flavor punch.
Oregano (1 tsp): Brings an herbal note that complements the spices perfectly.
Thyme (1 tsp): Offers earthiness and complexity to the seasoning blend.
Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Infuses savory warmth without overpowering the dish.
Onion powder (1/2 tsp): Enhances the natural sweetness of cooked onions.
Cayenne pepper (1/4 tsp): Adds just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.
Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Provides a subtle sharpness that rounds out the spice profile.
Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances and enhances every other flavor in the recipe.
Olive oil (1 Tbsp): Used for sautéing the chicken, lending a fruity note and preventing sticking.
Butter (1 Tbsp): Adds richness to the cooking process, helping develop flavor.
Boneless, skinless chicken breast (1 lb.): The protein star of the dish, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Yellow onion, diced (1): Offers sweetness and texture, softening beautifully in the sauce.
Penne pasta, uncooked (1/2 lb.): Perfect shape for holding onto the creamy sauce.
Fire roasted diced tomatoes (15 oz.): Adds a smoky acidity that brightens every bite.
Chicken broth (2 cups): Creates the flavorful base to cook the pasta and infuse the dish.
Cream cheese (2 oz.): Melts into the sauce to give it a luscious, creamy texture.
Green onions, sliced (3): Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a touch of color as garnish.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Cajun Seasoning and Prepare the Chicken

Start by combining the smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. This homemade Cajun seasoning blend is the secret to packing bold flavors into your chicken. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized cubes and toss them in the seasoning, ensuring each piece is well coated. This step infuses the chicken with the rich spices that define the dish.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter together in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and foamy. Add the seasoned chicken cubes and cook them just until the outside develops a nice golden-brown color. Don’t worry about cooking the chicken all the way through now—you’ll finish it later when simmering with the pasta.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

Add diced yellow onion to the skillet with the chicken and cook for about two minutes, until the onions soften and begin to turn translucent. The moisture released will help deglaze the pan, lifting all the flavorful browned bits off the bottom—this is where a lot of the deliciousness comes from!

Step 4: Add Pasta, Tomatoes, and Broth

Pour in the uncooked penne, fire roasted diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Stir everything gently to combine, then cover the pot with a lid. Crank the heat to bring the broth to a rolling boil, which will start the cooking process for the pasta right in the sauce.

Step 5: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the pasta simmer uncovered for about ten minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to make sure the pasta cooks evenly. As the pasta softens, the liquid thickens into a rich, tomato-spiced sauce that clings to every piece.

Step 6: Finish with Cream Cheese and Green Onions

Drop chunks of cream cheese into the pot and stir continuously until the cheese fully melts, creating a gloriously creamy sauce that wraps around the pasta and chicken. Just before serving, sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for a fresh, mild crunch and a pop of color that makes this dish even more inviting.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

A white plate filled with creamy pasta made of penne noodles mixed with pieces of sausage in a light orange sauce. The pasta is scattered with small chopped green onions on top, adding a fresh green color contrast. A black fork is placed on the right side of the plate, partially resting on the pasta. The whole dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Green onions are the go-to topping because they bring a delicate bite that contrasts the creamy richness. For extra flair, you might add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few shreds of sharp Parmesan cheese. A wedge of lemon on the side can also brighten the flavors if you want a little tang.

Side Dishes

This pasta stands on its own as a complete meal, but if you want to round it out, consider a simple crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. Garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls are also classic companions that never fail to delight.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish family-style straight from the skillet for a cozy and casual vibe, perfect for weeknight dinners. Alternatively, plate it individually with a sprinkle of extra sliced green onions and a drizzle of hot sauce if you’re craving more heat. A rustic bowl with a colorful napkin beneath adds a bit of southern comfort charm when sharing with friends or loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal just as satisfying. Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and safety.

Freezing

You can freeze the One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To avoid texture changes, freeze before adding green onions, which are best added fresh after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir well to redistribute the sauce so every bite stays creamy and delicious. Top with fresh green onions after reheating to revive that bright burst of flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, you can swap in fusilli, rotini, or even shells. Just adjust cooking times slightly based on the pasta shape and size.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a non-dairy alternative like cashew cream or vegan cream cheese. Keep in mind the flavor and texture might vary slightly, but it will still be deliciously creamy.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe has a mild to medium heat level thanks to the cayenne pepper, but you can easily adjust the spice to your liking by adding more or less cayenne or incorporating hot sauce when serving.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Definitely. Chicken thighs offer a juicier, slightly richer texture that pairs wonderfully with creamy sauces. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly before adding the other ingredients.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, swap the chicken for plant-based protein options like mushrooms, tofu, or a meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure your Cajun seasoning doesn’t contain any animal-derived ingredients.

Final Thoughts

There is something so satisfying about a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together quickly and easily, and this One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to dig in, relax, and savor every bite. Give it a try on your next busy evening—you just might find your new favorite comfort food!