This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a mouthwatering dish that’s full of bold flavors, a little heat, and plenty of creaminess. With juicy chicken coated in Cajun spices, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce, it’s the perfect combination for a satisfying dinner. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This dish has everything you could want—flavor, comfort, and just the right amount of spice. The Cajun seasoning adds a zesty kick to the tender chicken, and the creamy sauce balances it all out perfectly. The pasta soaks up the flavorful sauce, creating a comforting and hearty meal that’s simple to make but tastes like it came from a restaurant. It’s one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients (partial list – full list below)
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus extra for chicken)
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine work well)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
The full list of ingredients can be found below in the recipe card.
Directions
- Season the chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning on both sides.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- In the same skillet, add the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine and create a creamy sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it to the skillet with the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning if desired.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- To make this dish even richer, you can add a tablespoon of butter to the sauce as it simmers.
- If you like it spicier, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- You can use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist!
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream.
- For a veggie boost, add some bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sauce while it simmers.
- You can swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety to accommodate dietary preferences.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is filling on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some garlic bread. For a refreshing drink, try pairing it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a cold glass of iced tea. A side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, would add a nice balance to the meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, then warm it in a skillet over low heat.
- While this dish can be frozen, the cream sauce may change in texture once reheated, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re short on time, pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just add it to the sauce at the end to warm through.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce to kick up the heat. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for an extra boost.
3. Can I make this dish without cream?
Yes, you can use a mixture of chicken broth and a little flour to thicken the sauce for a lighter version.
4. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can sauté bell peppers, onions, or spinach and add them to the sauce for more flavor and color.
Conclusion
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy. The spicy Cajun chicken and creamy sauce come together perfectly, creating a dish that’s bold yet smooth. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and will definitely become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Print
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Description
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, spicy Cajun seasoning, and a rich, creamy sauce over pasta. Here’s a detailed recipe to guide you through preparing this delicious meal.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 8 ounces of penne or your preferred pasta
- Chicken: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Cajun Seasoning: 2 tablespoons
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss to combine, ensuring everything is well-coated with the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For added flavor, consider adding sautéed bell peppers and onions to the dish.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference.
- This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: Approximately 600 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg