Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in a bowl garnished with parsley and spices

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Dinner

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a fantastic dish that combines spicy, savory flavors with a rich, creamy sauce. It is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick yet satisfying dinner. This dish is not only simple to prepare, but it also offers the perfect blend of heat and creaminess. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it a hit for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing you to customize it with added vegetables or different proteins like shrimp.

how to make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are quick to cook and absorb the Cajun seasoning well. You could also use thighs for more flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the chicken. Olive oil adds a mild flavor and helps sear the chicken evenly.
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: This is the key to the dish’s bold flavor. You can either use store-bought Cajun seasoning or make your own blend.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken and ensuring it has enough flavor.
  • 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti: Any long or short pasta will work, but penne and fettuccine are great choices for creamy sauces.
  • Salt, for the pasta water: Seasoning the pasta water enhances the flavor of the pasta.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: The butter forms the base of the creamy sauce, adding richness and flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings aromatic depth to the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: Adding Cajun seasoning to the sauce intensifies the dish’s flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: For a smoky flavor that complements the Cajun seasoning and adds depth to the sauce.
  • 1 cup heavy cream: The heavy cream makes the sauce velvety and rich, balancing the heat from the Cajun spices.
  • ½ cup chicken broth: Chicken broth adds a savory base to the sauce and helps thin it out slightly for a smoother texture.
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, umami depth to the sauce, making it extra flavorful.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For garnish and added freshness.
  • Red pepper flakes: For an extra kick of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.
  • Fresh lemon juice: A squeeze of lemon just before serving will brighten the dish and balance the richness.
  • Sautéed vegetables: Add sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Shrimp: Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist on this Cajun pasta.

Directions:

First Step: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.

Second Step: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Third Step: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.

Fourth Step: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Slice the chicken and add it back to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.

how to serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Serve your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat. A squeeze of lemon juice on top brightens the flavors. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad and garlic bread.

how to store Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

tips to make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

  • For more flavor, let the chicken marinate in Cajun seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
  • If you like a bit of crunch, add toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts on top before serving.
  • Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning.

variation

You can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp or add in your favorite veggies to customize this dish. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Fettuccine, penne, or even whole wheat pasta would work great.

2. What if I can’t find Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own blend with spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the pasta is best served fresh, you can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then quickly combine them with cooked pasta when you are ready to serve.