Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Are you ready to take your weeknight dinner game to the next level? This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect balance of bold Cajun spices and rich, creamy sauce. It’s quick to make, irresistibly delicious, and versatile enough to suit any occasion.

Ingredients List

For the Cajun Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pasta Sauce:

• 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Medium-sized pot
• Whisk or spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season generously with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Cook the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
4. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat with the sauce.
2. Stir in the sliced chicken and a splash of reserved pasta water, if needed, to loosen the sauce.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more Cajun spice if desired.

Tips for Success

How to Adjust the Spice Level

• For milder pasta, reduce the Cajun seasoning and omit the red pepper flakes.
• Want it spicier? Add extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.

Getting the Perfect Sauce Consistency

• Simmer the sauce just long enough to thicken, but don’t overcook or it may curdle.

Making It Ahead of Time

• Prep the chicken and sauce separately, then combine and heat just before serving.

Fun Variations

Adding Shrimp or Sausage

• Replace or combine the chicken with shrimp or smoked sausage for a delicious twist.

Substituting Different Types of Pasta

• Use linguine, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta to suit your preferences.

Making It Vegetarian

• Swap the chicken for mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a plant-based version.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta pairs perfectly with:

• A crisp Caesar salad
• Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls
• Steamed broccoli or asparagus

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Keeping the Pasta Fresh

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Without Drying It Out

• Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to revive the sauce.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is everything you could want in a meal—creamy, spicy, and comforting. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table and leaves them asking for seconds. So why not give it a try? You won’t regret it!

FAQs

1. What’s the best type of Cajun seasoning to use?
Any store-bought Cajun seasoning works, but making your own allows you to control the spice and salt levels.

2. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich. You can thicken it with a bit of flour or cornstarch.

3. What vegetables pair well with this dish?
Bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes are great additions.

4. Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

5. Can I make the dish less spicy?
Of course! Reduce the Cajun seasoning and skip the red pepper flakes for a milder flavor.