Creamy Cajun Pasta

This hearty Creamy Cajun Pasta has become my go-to weeknight dinner when I need something satisfying but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety tomato cream sauce with just the right amount of Cajun spice creates a restaurant-quality meal that's surprisingly simple to prepare at home.

I first created this recipe when trying to use up pantry staples during a particularly busy week. My family was so impressed that it quickly earned a permanent spot in our dinner rotation. The way the homemade Cajun seasoning infuses every bite makes this dish feel special even though it's so easy.

Ingredients

• Smoked paprika adds authentic smoky depth that regular paprika can't match. Look for Spanish varieties for the best flavor
• Oregano and thyme provide classic Cajun herb notes. Fresh herbs work beautifully if you have them
• Garlic powder and onion powder create convenience while maintaining flavor intensity
• Cayenne pepper brings the signature Cajun heat. Start with less if serving to spice-sensitive eaters
• Boneless skinless chicken breast stays tender when cut into small, even pieces. Thighs work wonderfully too
• Fire roasted diced tomatoes offer a subtle char flavor that regular diced tomatoes lack
• Chicken broth forms the base of the sauce while cooking the pasta. Use homemade for extra depth
• Cream cheese creates the luxurious texture without requiring heavy cream
• Green onions add fresh brightness and color contrast to finish the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create the Cajun Seasoning Blend

Combine smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. This homemade blend allows you to control exactly what goes into your seasoning without any additives or preservatives. The proportions create the perfect balance of heat and flavor.

Prepare and Season the Chicken

Cut chicken breast into small, even cubes about 3/4 inch in size. Toss the chicken pieces thoroughly with the Cajun seasoning mixture until each piece is well coated. This direct seasoning method ensures the chicken itself carries flavor rather than just the sauce.

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter together in a large deep skillet over medium high heat until the butter is melted and slightly bubbly. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for about 2 minutes per side until lightly browned but not fully cooked through. The chicken will finish cooking with the pasta.

Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet with the partially cooked chicken. Cook for approximately 2 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions begin to soften and become translucent. The onions will absorb some of the seasoning from the pan, enhancing their flavor.

Create the Base

Add the penne pasta, fire roasted diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir everything together thoroughly, making sure all pasta is submerged in the liquid. This one pot approach allows the pasta to absorb the flavored broth as it cooks.

Simmer Until Tender

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 10 minutes, removing the lid to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Test a pasta piece at the 8 minute mark to gauge doneness. The pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite.

Finish with Creaminess

Reduce heat to low and add cream cheese in small pieces throughout the skillet. Gently stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the sauce, creating a silky texture. Top with freshly sliced green onions and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the homemade Cajun seasoning. After years of experimenting, I've found this particular blend hits all the right notes without overwhelming the dish. When my Louisiana born neighbor requested the recipe after dinner at our house, I knew I had created something authentic enough to share proudly.

Storage Instructions

This Creamy Cajun Pasta stores remarkably well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight, making day-two leftovers something to look forward to. When reheating, add a small splash of chicken broth or milk to refresh the sauce as it will thicken considerably when chilled. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop rather than microwave to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.

Simple Substitutions

Don't let missing ingredients stop you from enjoying this versatile dish. The recipe adapts beautifully to what you have on hand. Boneless chicken thighs make an excellent substitution for breast meat, offering even more flavor and tenderness. Any short pasta shape works well in place of penne—rotini, farfalle, or even elbow macaroni. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with bell peppers and mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The dish will still deliver amazing Cajun flavor with these simple swaps.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your Creamy Cajun Pasta dinner by serving it with complementary sides that balance the rich, spicy main dish. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or crusty French bread makes an excellent vehicle for soaking up any remaining sauce. For a complete Cajun-inspired meal, consider starting with a small cup of gumbo or serving alongside traditional southern collard greens. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer pairs beautifully with the spicy flavors.

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Common Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with other medium-sized pasta shapes like rotini, farfalle, or cavatappi. Just adjust cooking time according to package instructions, as different shapes may require slightly different cooking times.

→ How spicy is this dish?

With 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, this dish has a moderate heat level. For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne. To increase spiciness, add more cayenne or a dash of hot sauce at the end.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for substance. You could also include plant-based protein like chickpeas or plant-based chicken alternatives.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

Heavy cream, mascarpone, or sour cream can replace cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt added off the heat just before serving. Each alternative will slightly alter the flavor profile.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, though pasta dishes are best fresh. If making ahead, slightly undercook the pasta, as it will continue to absorb sauce when stored. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

A simple green salad with vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich pasta. Garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. For a complete Cajun-inspired meal, serve with corn on the cob or sautéed okra.