Creamy Dairy-Free Cajun Chicken Pasta
A bold and creamy one-pot Cajun chicken pasta made with tender seasoned chicken, smoky sausage, fire-roasted tomatoes, and penne simmered in a rich Cajun sauce. Naturally dairy-free if using coconut cream. Ready in about 30 minutes and perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
Cajun Seasoning:
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
OR 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
Chicken Pasta:
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
14 ounces pre-cooked smoked sausage, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
12 ounces penne pasta (gluten-free if needed)
1 (14.5 ounce) can fire roasted tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth or bone broth
1/2 cup unsweetened full-fat coconut cream (or heavy cream)
Chopped parsley or green onion for topping
Instructions
1. Combine all Cajun seasoning ingredients in a medium bowl.
2. Cut chicken into 1/2-inch cubes and add to bowl with the seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 1–2 minutes per side until browned (not fully cooked through).
4. Add diced onion and sliced smoked sausage to the skillet. Cook 2–3 minutes until onion is soft.
5. Add penne pasta, fire roasted tomatoes with juice, and chicken broth. Stir and cover.
6. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes.
7. Once pasta is tender and mixture is thick and saucy, stir in coconut cream (or heavy cream) until melted and combined.
8. Serve hot topped with chopped parsley or green onion.
Notes
You may omit the sausage; this reduces calories by about 200 per serving.
Use mild sausage and reduce Cajun seasoning for a less spicy dish.
Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
Use gluten-free pasta but cook slightly under al dente to prevent softening.
Store leftovers up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months.
Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk to revive the sauce.
Find it online: https://thecozycuppa.com/creamy-dreamy-cajun-chicken-pasta/