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Cajun Chicken Pasta

1 review
Contest Ribbon Contest Winner
Test Kitchen Approved
Total Time

Prep: 15 min. Cook: 25 min.

Makes

6 servings

Updated: Apr. 18, 2024
My husband was a very picky eater when we were first married. He isn't crazy about chicken, but loves it in a very flavorful dish like this Cajun chicken pasta! —Donna Gribbins, Shelbyville, Kentucky
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe photo by Taste of Home
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Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 shallots, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) fire-roasted diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 4 cups chopped fresh spinach
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed and softened
  • 12 ounces uncooked penne pasta

Directions

  1. Sprinkle chicken with 1-1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons oil over medium heat; add chicken. Cook and stir until chicken is lightly browned; remove and keep warm.
  2. In same pan, add shallots and remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Cook and stir until almost tender, 4-5 minutes. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in chicken broth, tomatoes, remaining 1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, salt and pepper. Add pasta and chicken. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, until pasta is al dente and chicken is cooked through. Remove from heat. Stir in spinach and cream cheese. Cover and let stand until cream cheese is almost melted, 5-7 minutes. Stir until cream cheese is blended with sauce.

Nutrition Facts

1-1/3 cups: 477 calories, 20g fat (6g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 965mg sodium, 50g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 24g protein.