One-pan Cajun chicken pasta recipe

Name: One-pan Cajun chicken pasta recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 serving(s)
Ingredients: 1 tsp. smoked sweet paprika; 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper; 1/4 tsp. garlic granules; 1 tsp. onion granules; 1 tsp. dried oregano; 1/2 tsp. dried thyme; 300 g chicken thigh fillets, cut into finger-sized strips; 1 tbsp. vegetable oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 400 g tin chopped tomatoes; 800 mL chicken stock; 300 g conchiglie pasta; 3 spring onions, finely sliced; 150 g guacamole, optional

The spice blend is the key to this easy recipe.

By The Good Housekeeping Cookery TeamUpdated: 02 May 2025

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This easy one-pan chicken pasta takes just 15 minutes to prep. Serve with a big dollop of guacamole, or even some soured cream, if you like. Perfect for a hands-off midweek meal.

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Yields:

4 serving(s)

Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

35 mins

Total Time:

50 mins

Cal/Serv:

441

Ingredients

For the cajun chicken

1 tsp.
smoked sweet paprika
1/2 tsp.
freshly ground black pepper
1/2 tsp.
cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp.
garlic granules
1 tsp.
onion granules
1 tsp.
dried oregano
1/2 tsp.
dried thyme
300 g
chicken thigh fillets, cut into finger-sized strips

For the pasta

1 Tbsp.
vegetable oil
1
onion, finely chopped
400 g
tin chopped tomatoes
800 ml
chicken stock
300 g
conchiglie pasta

To serve

3
spring onions, finely sliced
150 g
guacamole, optional

Directions

1. Step 1For the Cajun chicken, in a medium bowl mix all the spices, garlic and onion granules, the dried herbs and a large pinch of salt. Add the chicken and mix to coat.
2. Step 2For the pasta, heat the oil in a large pan over low heat and cook the onion for 5min, until softened. Increase the heat to medium, add the chicken and cook for 5min until starting to turn golden.
3. Step 3Add the tomatoes and stock. Bring to the boil then stir in the pasta. Bubble for 17-20min, stirring frequently, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Check seasoning.
4. Step 4Garnish with spring onions and serve with guacamole, if using, to dollop on.

You can use 1tbsp bought Cajun spice seasoning if short on time.

Chicken breast would also work here, though chicken thighs remain juicier and more tender.

For more inspiration, check out our best pasta recipes.

If you like this recipe, check out our easy chicken fajita pasta bake recipe.