Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautΓ©ing the chicken and adding moisture
– 2 tablespoons butter to create a hot and foamy base for browning the chicken
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes the main protein source for a hearty, lean addition
– 1 yellow onion, diced provides a sweet and savory depth to the dish
– 1/2 pound penne pasta, uncooked the base that absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly
– 15 ounces fire-roasted diced tomatoes with juices adds a smoky, tangy element to the sauce
– 2 cups chicken broth helps simmer the pasta and build a rich, flavorful liquid
– 2 ounces cream cheese, cut into chunks melts into the sauce for that creamy texture
– 3 green onions, sliced used as a fresh topping to brighten the final dish
– Cajun seasoning: Made from smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt (mix to taste in a small bowl) infuses everything with bold, spicy flavors
Instructions
1-Prepare ingredients: Start by mixing your Cajun seasoning in a small bowl using smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt to taste for that perfect spicy blend. Then, cube the chicken breasts and coat them thoroughly to lock in those flavors.
2-Cook chicken and onions: Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until the butter is hot and foamy. Add the seasoned chicken and cook it briefly until itβs lightly browned but not fully done, which takes just a couple of minutes. Stir in the diced yellow onion and sautΓ© until it softens, adding a nice sweetness to balance the spices.
3-Add pasta and liquids: Once the onions are ready, toss in the uncooked penne pasta, 15 ounces of fire-roasted diced tomatoes with their juices, and 2 cups of chicken broth. Stir everything together, cover the skillet, and bring it to a boil for a quick simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes to ensure the pasta tenderizes and the sauce thickens beautifully.
4-Finish with cream cheese: At this point, add the 2 ounces of cream cheese in chunks and stir until it melts fully into the sauce, creating that creamy texture everyone loves. Finally, top with sliced green onions and serve it hot for the best results. This method not only keeps things simple but also ensures a well-balanced meal with protein, carbs, and veggies in one pot.
Last Step:
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πΆοΈ Adjust cayenne pepper amount in Cajun seasoning to control spiciness.
π₯ Substitute cream cheese with heavy cream or half-and-half for texture variations or omit for non-creamy version.
π€ Enhance flavor by adding cooked bacon, Parmesan, shrimp, or vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-pot cooking, sautΓ©ing, simmering
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
- Diet: Omnivore
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 483 kcal
- Sodium: 847 mg
- Fat: 14.6 g
- Carbohydrates: 51.5 g
- Fiber: 3.5 g
- Protein: 35 g
