Level: Easy
Yield: 4 to 6 servings
Nutritional Analysis Per Serving (Serving Size: 1 of 6 servings)
Calories: 496
Total Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 53 g
Dietary Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 6 g
Protein: 29 g
Cholesterol: 100 mg
Sodium: 1060 mg

Total: 30 min
Active: 30 min

Craving a rich, comforting pasta dish with juicy chicken thighs, vibrant bell peppers, and onionsall simmered in a creamy tomato sauce? This one-pot wonder is ready in just 30 minutes, no boiling required. Dive in and savor the flavors that will have everyone at the table smiling!

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 4), cut into 1-inch pieces
2 1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
2 medium green bell peppers, stemmed, seeded and cut into 1/4-inch strips
1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, chopped
12 ounces smooth penne (see Cook's Note)
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
One 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes
6 ounces cream cheese, cubed, at room temperature
Kosher salt
4 scallions, sliced, for serving

Cook Mode (Keep screen awake) NEW: You can now switch to Cook Mode to keep your screen awake.

Warm the oil in a large, wide pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and Cajun seasoning, cooking and stirring occasionally until the chicken begins to change color and the spices are fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Stir in the peppers and onions, cooking until they start to release their juices, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until softened, about 1 minute.
Combine the pasta, chicken broth, and tomatoes in the pot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened and reduced by about half, about 15 minutes.
Remove from heat and add the cream cheese and 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated. Don't be concerned if the sauce seems a bit thin at firstit will thicken as it rests. Garnish with sliced scallions before serving.

The success of this recipe relies on using the pasta shape recommended, so substitutions are not advised.