Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Dinner
This creamy Cajun chicken pasta delivers bold, spicy flavors balanced with a rich and velvety sauce. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and smoky Cajun spices come together for an easy, comforting, and flavor-packed dinner ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts Can substitute with chicken thighs for richer flavor
- 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking the chicken
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning store-bought or homemade blend
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta
- 340 g penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti any pasta type works well
- Salt for pasta water
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter for a rich sauce base
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning for the sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika adds smoky depth
- 1 cup heavy cream for a creamy, velvety texture
- 0.5 cup chicken broth to thin the sauce slightly
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese adds umami flavor
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)
Optional Garnishes & Variations
- Red pepper flakes for extra heat
- Fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor
- Sautéed vegetables bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms
- Shrimp can substitute for chicken for a seafood version
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F / 74°C). Remove, let rest, then slice into strips. - Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente (8–10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside. - Step 3: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook 1–2 minutes. Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, letting them bloom for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, simmer 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. - Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Stir in the sliced chicken and mix until evenly combined. Add reserved pasta water as needed to adjust consistency. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Add sautéed vegetables for extra texture and flavor. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.