Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a bold and flavorful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a spicy Cajun-seasoned cream sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s rich, creamy, and packs just the right amount of heat. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend dinner, this one-pan pasta dish is ready in just 30 minutes and will satisfy all your comfort food cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the smoky, spicy flavors of Cajun seasoning with a creamy sauce that perfectly coats every bite of pasta and chicken. It’s a restaurant-quality meal made at home in just half an hour. You can easily adjust the spice level, add veggies, or swap the pasta type based on your preferences. Plus, everything comes together in one pan, which means fewer dishes and easy cleanup!

Ingredients

this recipe

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (plus more for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
3. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
5. Add liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Season the sauce: Add Parmesan cheese, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
8. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a veggie-packed version.
• Seafood twist: Replace the chicken with shrimp or a mix of shrimp and scallops for a seafood variation.
• Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan cheese for a lighter dish.
• Extra cheesy: Stir in shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a richer, cheesier pasta.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes, store-bought Cajun seasoning works great. Just be mindful of the salt content, as some brands can be quite salty.

2. What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta like penne or rotini holds the sauce well, but you can also use fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti if you prefer.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

4. How do I make the dish spicier?

Add extra Cajun seasoning, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or more crushed red pepper flakes for an added heat boost.

5. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken. Just stir it into the sauce after it thickens and heat until warmed through.

6. Can I make this pasta gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta brand.

7. How can I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken it faster.

8. Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, though the sauce will be less rich. You can use whole milk for a lighter version and thicken it with a little cornstarch if needed.

9. Can I freeze Cajun chicken pasta?

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop with a little extra cream or broth.

10. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions and complement the creamy Cajun flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors. It’s a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something rich and comforting. With its bold Cajun seasoning, tender chicken, and indulgent sauce, this pasta dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Serve it with garlic bread or a crisp side salad for a complete meal!

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