January Recipe - Creamy Chicken Pasta

This month our Director of Marketing and Admissions, Shagufta Bibi shares her one pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights! 

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Servings: 4

INGREDIENTS

CAJUN SEASONING

• 2 tsp smoked paprika 
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder 
• 1/2 tsp onion powder 
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper 
• 1/4 tsp black pepper 
• 1/4 tsp salt 

CHICKEN PASTA

• 2 tsp smoked paprika 
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder 
• 1/2 tsp onion powder 
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper 
• 1/4 tsp black pepper 
• 1/4 tsp salt 

METHOD

1. Combine the ingredients for the Cajun seasoning in a small bowl. Cut the chicken into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes. Place the cubed chicken in a bowl, pour the Cajun seasoning over top, and stir to coat the chicken in spices.
2.  Add the olive oil and butter to a large deep pot. Heat the oil and butter over medium-high until the pot is very hot and the butter is melted and foamy. Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and cook for a couple minutes on each side, or just until the outside gets some color. The chicken does not need to be cooked through at this point.
3. Add the diced yellow onion to the pot and continue to sauté for about 2 minutes more, or just until the onion begins to soften. Allow the moisture from the onion to dissolve any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Next, add the pasta, roasted diced tomatoes (with the juices), and chicken broth to the pot. Stir just until everything is evenly combined, then place a lid on top and allow the broth to come up to a boil.
5. Once boiling, turn the heat down to medium-low and let the pasta simmer for about ten minutes, stirring every couple of minutes, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is thick and saucy.
6. Add the cream cheese to the pot in chunks, then stir until it has melted into the sauce. Top the pasta with sliced green onions, serve and enjoy 😊