Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
A spicy and creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken, fettuccine, and a rich Cajun-inspired sauce.
Ingredients
- 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)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Sear in olive oil until cooked through, then set aside.
- Sauté garlic in butter, then add heavy cream and chicken broth. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Stir in smoked paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add sliced chicken to the sauce, then toss with cooked pasta. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
For an extra creamy sauce, ensure Parmesan cheese is freshly grated. Adjust Cajun seasoning to your desired spice level.