Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bold and Flavorful – The Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of spice and depth.
  • Creamy and Comforting – A luscious Parmesan cream sauce coats every bite.
  • Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
  • Customizable – Adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies for a personal touch.
  • Restaurant-Quality at Home – Skip the takeout and enjoy a gourmet meal in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic, minced
  • Heavy cream
  • Chicken broth
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fettuccine pasta
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season the cubed chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine.
  6. Add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together until well coated.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Calories: ~550 kcal per serving

Variations

  • Make It Spicier – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or extra Cajun seasoning.
  • Add Veggies – Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions.
  • Use a Different Protein – Try shrimp or sausage instead of chicken.
  • Lighten It Up – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or opt for a lower-fat cheese.
  • Swap the Pasta – Use penne, linguine, or even a gluten-free pasta alternative.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the creamy texture. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

FAQs

How do I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. You can also balance the heat with a little extra Parmesan or cream.

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes! However, if you prefer homemade, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and oregano.

What pasta works best for this dish?

Fettuccine is ideal, but penne, linguine, or rotini will also work well.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter for a lighter option.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

Add a little more chicken broth or a splash of pasta water to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative for a similar texture.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables pairs perfectly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but the sauce may thicken. Reheat with a little extra broth or cream to loosen it up.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free pasta and check that your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?

Absolutely! Try adding a bit of mozzarella or cheddar for extra creaminess.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and comforting flavors. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try customizing it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.

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

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Print Recipe

Description

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight meal that combines tender chicken, zesty Cajun seasoning, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Served with fettuccine, it delivers bold, spicy flavors with a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for those craving comfort food with a kick, this dish can be customized to suit your taste.

Ingredients

  • 2 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 cup Heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup Chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz Fettuccine pasta
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Prepare the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Season the Chicken: Season the cubed chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

  4. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.

  5. Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

  6. Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked fettuccine. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce.

  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Make it Spicier: Add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
  • Veggies: You can add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Protein Options: Swap chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a different twist.
  • Lighten it Up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or opt for a lighter cheese option.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star