Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 89 reviews

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a quick, flavor-packed main course that marries juicy Cajun-spiced chicken with a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce and tender pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish brings the bold, smoky flavors of Cajun cuisine to your weeknight table with minimal effort. Perfect for anyone craving a one-pan comfort meal that’s creamy, a little spicy, and utterly satisfying.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti
  • Salt, for the pasta water

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Optional Garnishes and Variations:

  • Red pepper flakes (to taste)
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Sautéed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms)
  • Shrimp (as chicken substitute)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F/74°C). Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest, then slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta. Toss with a little olive oil if desired to prevent sticking.
  3. Make the Cajun Cream Sauce: Using the same skillet as the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, letting the spices bloom for 1 minute. Add heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 4-5 minutes, until the sauce slightly thickens. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce in the skillet, tossing to coat well. If the sauce is too thick, incorporate reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach the desired consistency. Add the sliced chicken and toss to combine evenly.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, then sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. For added flair, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for richer flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • You can substitute shrimp or add sautéed vegetables for variety.
  • For an extra creamy sauce, add more heavy cream or a splash of milk as desired.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level, or use homemade seasoning to control heat and saltiness.
  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun-American
  • Diet: Halal

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 650 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 160mg

Find it online: https://sophiasplate.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-pasta-recipe/