Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

A Spicy, Creamy, and Satisfying Pasta Dish

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a bold, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, spicy Cajun-seasoned cream sauce. This dish is a perfect blend of heat, creaminess, and a hint of smokiness, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of flavor – The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, spicy kick.
• Quick and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Creamy and satisfying – A rich sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan.
• Customizable – Adjust spice levels, swap proteins, or add vegetables.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into strips)
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 bell pepper (sliced, any color)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 12 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Season the sliced chicken with Cajun seasoning.
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
• Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same skillet, melt butter and add bell peppers and garlic.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
• Add cherry tomatoes and cook for another minute.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

• Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for a minute.
• Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
• Stir until smooth and let the sauce thicken for 2-3 minutes.
• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, or more Cajun seasoning.

5. Combine Everything

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
• Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
• Let it heat through for a minute.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Garnish with fresh parsley.
• Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.

Variations and Additions

• Protein swap – Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood version.
• Vegetable boost – Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
• Lighter option – Substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Gluten-free – Use gluten-free pasta.

Servings and Timing

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

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Cajun Chicken Pasta?

The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning and whether you add extra cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount to your preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but the sauce thickens as it sits. Add a bit of broth or cream when reheating to maintain the creamy consistency.

What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine, penne, or linguine are great choices because they hold the creamy sauce well.

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes! You can also make a homemade blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, and black pepper.

What can I serve with Cajun Chicken Pasta?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well with this dish.

How do I make it less rich?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or swap some of the cream for milk.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but add it at the end to prevent overcooking.

What’s a good substitute for Parmesan?

Asiago or Pecorino Romano work well as substitutes.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just use a larger pan to accommodate all ingredients evenly.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delicious, spicy, and satisfying meal that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this pasta is sure to be a hit. Try it with your favorite variations and enjoy a comforting bowl of bold flavors!

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