After years of testing pasta dinners for busy weeknights, I can say this is the Best Chicken Pasta Recipe when you want bold flavor without stress. It is smoky, spicy, and rich, yet simple enough to feed a full family for under ten dollars. Every bite gives you tender chicken cubes, fire roasted tomatoes, and a smooth cream cheese sauce that clings to perfectly cooked pasta.
The best part is the ease. Everything cooks in one pan. You sear, simmer, and stir in the same skillet. Cleanup takes minutes. Dinner feels special, but the effort stays low.
Table of Contents
The Secret to the Perfect Cajun Spice Blend
A bold Cajun kick turns simple chicken pasta into something unforgettable. I always mix my own blend because it gives full control over flavor and heat. Smoked paprika builds that deep, smoky base. Dried oregano and thyme add an earthy note. Garlic powder and onion powder create a rich, savory backbone that makes the sauce taste layered, not flat.
Heat is easy to adjust. Start with a small amount of cayenne if your family prefers mild food. You can always add more at the end. Black pepper adds warmth without extra burn. A small pinch of salt ties everything together and wakes up the spices.
When you make the blend fresh, the aroma is stronger and the taste is brighter. That difference shows in every bite.
Ingredients Needed
Here is everything you need to make this bold and creamy chicken pasta. I grouped the ingredients for easy prep.
For the Homemade Cajun Seasoning
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika for deep smoky flavor
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano for an earthy note
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme for warmth
• 1 half teaspoon garlic powder for savory depth
• 1 half teaspoon onion powder to round out the flavor
• 1 quarter teaspoon cayenne pepper, adjust for heat preference
• 1 quarter teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 quarter teaspoon salt to balance the spices
For the Chicken Pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing
• 1 tablespoon butter for richness and flavor
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite size cubes
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
• 1 can fire roasted diced tomatoes with juices included
• 2 cups chicken broth for simmering the pasta
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened for easy melting
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
Simple ingredients. Big flavor. Every item works together to create a rich and velvety creamy chicken pasta that feels special but stays budget friendly.
How to Make This Chicken Pasta
Follow these steps closely for the best texture and flavor. Keep everything ready before you start because the cooking moves quickly.
1. Mix the Cajun seasoning
Add smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, and salt to a small bowl. Stir well until the color looks even throughout. This step spreads the heat and flavor evenly over the chicken.
2. Prep and season the chicken
Cut the chicken breasts into bite size cubes, about half to three quarters of an inch thick. Try to keep the pieces similar in size so they cook at the same speed. Place the chicken in a bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun mix over it. Toss until every piece is fully coated. The spices should cling to the surface.
3. Sear the chicken
Place a large deep skillet over medium high heat. Add the olive oil and butter. Let the butter melt and turn slightly foamy. When the pan is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan. Let it cook without stirring for about two minutes so a golden crust forms. Turn the pieces and cook another one to two minutes. The chicken does not need to cook through yet. Browning builds deep flavor in the final sauce.
4. Build the flavor base
Add the diced onion directly into the skillet with the chicken. Stir and cook for about two minutes. The onion should soften and turn slightly translucent. As it releases moisture, scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. This lifts the browned bits and blends them into the dish. Those bits carry strong flavor.
5. Add pasta and liquids
Pour in the uncooked penne, fire roasted tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Stir gently so the pasta is mostly submerged in liquid. Place a lid on the skillet and raise the heat until the liquid begins to boil.
6. Simmer until tender
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium low. Let the pasta simmer for about ten minutes. Stir every couple of minutes to prevent sticking. The pasta should become tender but still slightly firm in the center. The liquid will thicken into a rich sauce. It should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
7. Create the creamy finish
Cut the cream cheese into small chunks. Add them to the skillet. Stir slowly until the cheese melts fully into the sauce. The texture should turn smooth and velvety. If the sauce looks too thick, add a small splash of hot water and stir.
8. Garnish and serve
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for color and fresh bite. Serve hot straight from the skillet.
You now have a smoky, spicy, and creamy chicken pasta made in one pan with minimal cleanup.
Serving and Storage Solutions
Garnish for Fresh Color
Finish the pasta with a generous sprinkle of sliced green onions. The bright green color contrasts beautifully with the rich red Cajun sauce. The mild onion bite also balances the creamy texture. If you like extra heat, add a light dusting of smoked paprika on top before serving.
Side Dish Pairings
This creamy chicken pasta pairs well with crisp, fresh sides. A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and coolness that balances the spice. Warm cornbread is another great option. Its slight sweetness softens the smoky heat and makes the meal feel comforting and complete.
Storing Leftovers
Let the pasta cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. The sauce will thicken as it sits.
Reheating the Right Way
Warm leftovers gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a small splash of water or chicken broth before reheating. Stir halfway through heating to keep the sauce smooth. This step brings the creamy texture back and prevents it from becoming too thick.
Conclusion
This chicken pasta is a true weeknight winner. It delivers smoky spice, creamy texture, and tender chicken in every bite. You cook everything in one pan, which keeps cleanup quick and simple. The ingredients stay budget friendly, yet the flavor tastes like something from a restaurant kitchen.
The bold Cajun seasoning brings warmth. The fire roasted tomatoes add depth. The cream cheese creates a smooth, rich sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. It feels special, but it fits into a busy schedule.
If you tried this recipe, leave a comment below and share your star rating. Your feedback helps others decide and helps this recipe grow. Did you adjust the spice level or add your own twist? Tell us what worked for you.
If you loved it, share it on Pinterest or Facebook so your friends can enjoy it too.
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Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
Homemade Cajun Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika for deep smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano for earthy note
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme for warmth
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder for savory depth
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder to round out flavor
- 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to heat preference
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 0.25 teaspoon salt to balance spices
Chicken Pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing
- 1 tablespoon butter for richness
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cut into bite size cubes
- 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
- 8 ounces penne pasta uncooked
- 1 can fire roasted diced tomatoes with juices included (14.5 oz can)
- 2 cups chicken broth for simmering pasta
- 2 ounces cream cheese softened
- 3 pieces green onions thinly sliced for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, and salt until evenly combined.
- Place cubed chicken in a bowl and toss with the Cajun seasoning until fully coated.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large deep skillet over medium high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear for about 2 minutes per side until lightly browned.
- Add diced onion to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring and scraping the bottom to lift browned bits.
- Stir in uncooked penne, fire roasted tomatoes with juices, and chicken broth. Ensure pasta is mostly submerged. Cover and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to medium low and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
- Add softened cream cheese in small pieces. Stir until fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add a splash of hot water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Turn off heat, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve hot straight from the skillet.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
Serving Size: 1 serving- Calories: 482.65 kcal 24%
- Carbohydrates: 51.53 g 17%
- Protein: 34.95 g 70%
- Fat: 14.58 g 22%
- Sodium: 847.23 mg 37%
- Fiber: 3.45 g 14%
FAQs
Do Italians eat chicken with pasta?
In traditional Italian cooking, chicken is rarely mixed directly into pasta dishes. Italians often serve meat as a separate course. That said, chicken pasta is very popular in many homes outside Italy. If you want a more authentic touch, cook the chicken with onion as a simple base and keep the sauce balanced and not too heavy.
What is the secret to flavorful chicken pasta?
The secret is building layers of flavor. First, season the chicken well. Let it brown properly in a hot pan. That golden crust adds depth. Second, cook onions until soft to create a strong base. Third, simmer the pasta in broth instead of plain water so it absorbs flavor as it cooks. Finally, finish with a creamy element that ties everything together.
Is it better to boil pasta before baking?
If you plan to bake pasta, it is best to boil it slightly under al dente first. The pasta will continue cooking in the oven. If you fully cook it before baking, it can turn too soft. For one pan recipes like this one, the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, which saves time and adds more taste.
What spices best enhance chicken pasta flavor?
Smoked paprika adds depth and warmth. Oregano and thyme bring an earthy note. Garlic powder and onion powder build a savory base. Cayenne adds heat if you like spice. Fresh black pepper sharpens the flavor. For a brighter finish, a small squeeze of lemon juice can lift the whole dish.
What can I put on pasta if I do not have a traditional sauce?
You can toss pasta with olive oil, butter, grated cheese, and cracked pepper for a simple option. Cream cheese also works well for quick creaminess. Even sautéed vegetables with broth can create a light sauce. The key is adding fat and seasoning so the pasta does not taste plain.
How do I prevent my chicken from becoming dry?
Cut the chicken into even pieces so it cooks at the same rate. Do not overcook it during the searing stage. It only needs to brown on the outside at first. The chicken will finish cooking while the pasta simmers. Also, keep some liquid in the pan at all times. Moist heat helps keep the chicken tender and juicy.