How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta – Easy Recipe!

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you ready to spice up your weeknight dinner routine with a dish that’s both flavorful and easy to make? Look no further! Today, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, a mouthwatering blend of spicy and creamy that will quickly become a family favorite. This dish is perfect for those quick family dinners when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s one of those easy pasta recipes that you’ll return to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes!
• Packed with bold Cajun flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Creamy and rich, yet light enough for a weeknight dinner.
• Customizable—adjust the heat level to your liking!
• Perfect for meal prep or a special occasion.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Prepare the Pasta

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta (fettuccine or penne work well) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water to help loosen the sauce later if needed. Set the pasta aside.

Cook the Chicken

Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning, making sure the chicken is well-coated with the spices.

Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.

Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden.

Add Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Season the Sauce: Stir in the smoked paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and additional Cajun seasoning. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and incorporate into the sauce, creating a creamy and smooth texture.

Combine the Chicken and Pasta

Add the Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it to the sauce, stirring to coat the chicken in the creamy Cajun sauce.

Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For an extra spicy kick, add more Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes!
• Pasta Choice: Fettuccine and penne are great options, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. Linguine or even rotini would work well too.
• Extra Creamy Sauce: For an even richer sauce, add an extra tablespoon or two of butter or a splash of heavy cream.
• Meal Prep: Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving.

How to Serve

Garnish and Serve: Serve the creamy Cajun chicken pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy immediately with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time. Store cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

There you have it—a delicious, creamy, and spicy Cajun chicken pasta that’s perfect for quick family dinners or a special treat. Don’t forget to check out more of our easy pasta recipes and 30-minute meals for more inspiration!

Happy cooking, and I’ll see you in the next recipe!