Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti; Salt, for pasta water; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup chicken broth; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional); Red pepper flakes; Fresh lemon juice; Sautéed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach, mushrooms); Shrimp (as a chicken substitute)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that brings bold, spicy flavors wrapped in a luscious, creamy sauce, then you simply have to try this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe. It’s comfort food elevated with a kick, showcasing tender chicken generously seasoned with Cajun spices, perfectly paired with pasta coated in a velvety sauce that delivers heat and richness in harmony. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds with every bite. And let me tell you, making 1 dish like this can bring so much joy and warmth to your table!

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential. Each one plays a starring role, from the smoky Cajun seasoning that adds depth and spice to the creamy Parmesan sauce that coats every strand of pasta in perfect silkiness.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Ideal for absorbing the flavorful Cajun seasoning while staying juicy and tender.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sear the chicken evenly, adding a subtle, fruity note to the meat.
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: This is the heart of the dish, bringing that signature bold and spicy personality.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Basic but essential for balancing all the flavors.
12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti): Choose the shape you love; penne and fettuccine work beautifully with creamy sauces.
Salt for pasta water: Seasons the pasta internally for better taste.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a rich, velvety foundation for the sauce.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds fragrant, aromatic depth that makes the sauce irresistible.
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: Boosts the heat and intensity in the sauce portion.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Lends a smoky undertone that perfectly complements the Cajun spice.
1 cup heavy cream: Provides luscious creaminess to balance the spices.
½ cup chicken broth: Helps thin the sauce to just the right consistency while adding savory notes.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, umami goodness that elevates the creaminess.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a fresh, green brightness as a garnish.

How to Make 1

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by giving your chicken breasts a generous coating of salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning on both sides. This is the key to infusing 1 layer of flavor right into the meat. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once it’s hot, sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Rest the chicken briefly before slicing it into strips or bite-sized pieces, ready to mingle with the pasta and sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is getting all golden and delicious, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente — usually about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, be sure to reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water; this starchy liquid is a secret weapon for making the sauce silky and cling perfectly to each noodle. Drain the pasta and, if you like, toss it lightly with olive oil to keep it from sticking.

Step 3: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

Using the skillet that captured all the chicken goodness, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes — careful not to let it brown. Stir in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, letting the spices bloom in the butter for about 1 minute; this step unlocks their full flavor potential. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and ½ cup chicken broth, stirring gently. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened and dreamy. Finally, add ¼ cup grated Parmesan and stir until melted and smooth, tasting to adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Now for the exciting part: toss the cooked pasta into the creamy Cajun sauce, coating every piece beautifully. If the sauce feels too thick, add some of that reserved pasta water a little at a time for a perfect saucy texture. Fold in the sliced chicken so that 1 dish becomes a harmonious blend of spicy chicken and luscious pasta. Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh burst of color and flavor.

How to Serve 1

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, but you can also add a little more grated Parmesan or some red pepper flakes if you love extra heat. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten the richness and make your taste buds sing.

Side Dishes

This dish is filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance. Garlic bread or crusty bread is fantastic for mopping up leftover sauce, making every bite indulgent and delicious.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in deep bowls topped with herbs and a lemon wedge on the side for that gourmet touch. You can also layer sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and color, turning this classic into a vibrant feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pasta stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness. The flavors even deepen with time!

Freezing

You can freeze the pasta, but creamy sauces sometimes separate upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, store it in a suitable freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream, broth, or reserved pasta water to bring back that silky texture. Using the microwave works too, but stir frequently to avoid overheating or separating the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp is a fantastic substitute that pairs beautifully with Cajun seasoning and creamy sauce. You can also use chicken thighs for juicier meat or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.

What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Penne and fettuccine are excellent choices because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well, but you can use spaghetti, linguine, or short pasta like rigatoni—it all depends on your personal preference.

Is the Cajun seasoning very spicy?

The level of spice depends on the blend you use. Store-bought Cajun seasoning can range from mild to quite hot, so adjust the quantity or choose a milder blend if you prefer less heat. You can always add red pepper flakes for extra kick.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil, use a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut cream, and skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese. The dish will still be delicious with those tweaks.

Why do I need to save pasta water?

Reserved pasta water is starchy and helps thin out the sauce without watering down flavor. It also helps the sauce cling to the pasta for a luxurious, cohesive dish.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making 1 dish that combines spice, creaminess, and tender chicken all in one bowl of comfort. This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a true kitchen winner that’s easy to prepare yet packed with big flavor. I encourage you to make this recipe your own, add your favorite garnishes, and enjoy every rich, cozy bite with the people you love.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

★★★★★

5 from 13 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish combining tender chicken breasts seasoned with spicy Cajun spices, al dente pasta, and a velvety, smoky cream sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this pasta features bold flavors with a hint of heat, balanced by parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add chicken. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and let rest. Slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining. Drain pasta and set aside, tossing with a little olive oil if desired.
Make the Cajun Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika; cook 1 minute to bloom spices. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Simmer 4-5 minutes to thicken. Stir in grated Parmesan until melted and sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce: Add cooked pasta to skillet with sauce and toss to coat. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time for desired consistency. Add sliced chicken and toss gently to combine. Remove from heat.
Serve and Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal. Optionally sprinkle red pepper flakes or squeeze fresh lemon juice for added brightness.

Notes

Use a high-quality Cajun seasoning blend or make your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, thyme, and oregano.
Do not overcook chicken to avoid dryness; use a meat thermometer to ensure 165°F (74°C).
Reserve pasta water to loosen sauce and help it adhere to the pasta.
Adjust heat level by varying Cajun seasoning and adding red pepper flakes as preferred.
Substitute shrimp in place of chicken for a seafood variation.
Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing, Boiling
Cuisine: Cajun, American