Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 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 the 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 substitute for chicken)

Jump to Recipe

When you’re craving a dish that brings warmth, spice, and indulgence all in one bowl, Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta has got you covered. It’s a heavenly marriage of tender, perfectly seasoned chicken and luscious, velvety sauce that clings lovingly to every strand of pasta. This recipe is bursting with bold Cajun flavors balanced by a dreamy creaminess that feels like a comforting hug on a plate. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a night when you want to treat yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color for your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. From the aromatic garlic to the spicy Cajun seasoning and the rich cream, these simple components come together effortlessly to elevate each bite.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These cook quickly and soak up the Cajun spices beautifully, giving you juicy, flavorful chicken.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for searing the chicken to golden perfection and adds a subtle richness.
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: The heart of the dish, this spice mix provides layers of bold, zesty flavor.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Basic seasoning to highlight the natural flavors and balance the spice.
12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti: Choose your favorite pasta shape that best holds the creamy sauce.
Salt, for the pasta water: Properly salted water is key to perfectly seasoned pasta.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Lays the luscious, velvety groundwork for the sauce.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds vibrant aroma and a punch of savory depth.
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: Boosts the sauce with that signature smoky heat.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smoky sweetness, complementing the spice.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the ultra-smooth, decadent sauce that coats every noodle.
½ cup chicken broth: Balances richness with savory undertones and smooths the sauce.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, umami hit that makes the sauce irresistible.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Provides a fresh, vibrant contrast and pretty garnish.
Optional garnishes and variations: Red pepper flakes for heat, fresh lemon juice for brightness, sautéed veggies or shrimp to switch it up.

How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning on all sides. This step is crucial to infuse that essential Cajun flavor right from the start. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Resting the chicken before slicing it into strips allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each bite tender and juicy.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Adding salt to the pasta water is a small trick that makes a big difference in taste. Cook your chosen pasta until al dente according to package instructions, making sure it’s firm with just the right bite. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining—it will come in handy later to perfect your sauce’s consistency.

Step 3: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

Using the same skillet, melt butter and gently sauté minced garlic until fragrant—this is where the sauce begins to develop its soul. Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, letting the spices bloom to intensify their aroma. Add heavy cream and chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken into a dreamy sauce. Finish by melting in Parmesan cheese, which adds a subtly salty, creamy richness that’ll make you want to lick the pan clean.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Toss the cooked pasta directly into the sauce, coating every piece with that incredible creamy Cajun goodness. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until it reaches a perfectly smooth and luscious consistency. Finally, fold in the sliced chicken, mixing everything until evenly distributed. Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds just the right amount of brightness to cut through the rich sauce. For an exciting twist, try adding red pepper flakes for extra heat or a quick squeeze of lemon to brighten up every bite.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp, lightly dressed green salads or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to add crunch and freshness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is also ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, try serving the pasta in individual ramekins or hollowed-out bell peppers. Drizzle a little extra olive oil or a sprinkling of Parmesan on top right before serving to impress your guests visually and flavor-wise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It should stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but cream-based sauces may change texture slightly upon thawing. To freeze, cool the pasta completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Consume within 2 months for the best flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and keep it silky. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent the sauce from breaking and becoming grainy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine work wonderfully with creamy sauces, spaghetti or even shells can be great alternatives depending on your preference. Just make sure to cook them until al dente to hold the sauce well.

Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?

Yes. You can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a milder blend. Additionally, adding extra cream or Parmesan can help mellow the heat while keeping the taste rich.

Can I substitute chicken with another protein in this recipe?

Certainly! Shrimp, sausage, or even tofu are great substitutes. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein stays tender and flavorful.

What’s the best way to make homemade Cajun seasoning?

A simple homemade blend includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these fresh at home allows you to customize the heat and complexity exactly to your liking.

Can I make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap out regular pasta for a gluten-free variety like rice pasta or quinoa pasta. The sauce and chicken remain naturally gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish.

Final Thoughts

Making Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta feels like inviting a burst of rich, comforting flavors to your dinner table. It’s the kind of recipe that turns a simple meal into a celebration of spice, creaminess, and hearty satisfaction. I encourage you to dive into this recipe, customize it to your tastes, and enjoy a dish that truly feels like a special treat any night of the week.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 20 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make weeknight dinner that combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with a rich and velvety Cajun-spiced cream sauce, tossed with pasta for a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning on both sides to ensure full flavor. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest. Then, slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Pasta: While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Toss pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
Make the Cajun Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, stirring for 1 minute to bloom the spices. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, simmer 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Combine: Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat thoroughly. If sauce is too thick, incorporate reserved pasta water gradually for desired consistency. Add sliced chicken and toss until evenly distributed. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.