1-First Step: Prepare the Cajun Seasoning Begin by combining the Cajun seasoning ingredients in a small bowl. Mix 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 teaspoon thyme, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Once blended, coat 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breast cubes with this mix. This step infuses the chicken with bold flavors right from the start, setting the tone for the dish.

2-Second Step: Heat the Skillet and Cook the Chicken Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken cubes and cook them until they gain a nice color on each side, about 3-4 minutes. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked yet; it will finish in the sauce later. This browning step locks in the juices and builds a flavorful base for the rest of the recipe.

3-Third Step: Add the Onions and Sauté Once the chicken is partially cooked, toss in 1 diced yellow onion and sauté it until softened, which takes about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning, and keep the heat at medium-high for even cooking. The onions add sweetness and depth, creating a savory aroma that fills your kitchen and prepares the pan for the other ingredients.

4-Fourth Step: Incorporate Pasta and Liquids Next, add 1/2 pound uncooked penne pasta, 15 ounces fire roasted diced tomatoes with their juices, and 2 cups chicken broth to the skillet. Give everything a good stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. This step lets the pasta cook in the flavorful liquid, absorbing the Cajun spices and making the dish extra tasty. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent overflow.

5-Fifth Step: Simmer and Thicken the Sauce Lower the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on the pasta until it’s tender and the sauce starts to thicken naturally from the starches. This simmering process is crucial for blending the flavors, so taste as you go. If the sauce seems too thin, continue simmering for another minute or two.

6-Final Step: Finish and Serve Stir in 2 ounces of cream cheese chunks until they melt completely, creating a creamy texture that coats the pasta and chicken. Remove the skillet from the heat and top the dish with 3 sliced green onions for a fresh finish. Serve immediately as a complete one-pot meal, or pair it with a side salad for a fuller dinner. This recipe serves 4-6 people and takes just 20 minutes of cooking time after prep.