Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti; Salt, for the pasta water; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup chicken broth; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional); Red pepper flakes; Fresh lemon juice; Sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms; Shrimp (as substitute for chicken)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, let me introduce you to the magic of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. This dish combines tender, perfectly seasoned chicken with a luscious, spicy cream sauce all tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s comfort food with a punch of bold Cajun flavors that will make every dinner something to look forward to. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed winner that brings rich taste and satisfying textures to the table.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta sing, you’ll want a handful of simple but powerful ingredients. Each one plays a special role — from the juicy chicken and fragrant spices to the silky cream and sharp Parmesan that round out the sauce beautifully.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cook quickly and absorb Cajun seasoning wonderfully; thighs work well too if you want more richness.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sear the chicken perfectly with a mild, fruity flavor.
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: The star of the show that delivers bold, smoky, spicy notes throughout the dish.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all flavors.
12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti: Pick your favorite pasta shape; penne and fettuccine work best for creamy sauces.
Salt, for pasta water: Never skip salting your pasta water—it seasons the pasta itself from inside out.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a rich base that enhances the sauce’s creaminess.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and just the right pungency.
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: Boosts the sauce’s flavor intensity and spiciness.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smoky undertone that harmonizes beautifully with Cajun spices.
1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce velvety smooth and balances the heat with indulgent richness.
½ cup chicken broth: Adds savory body and helps thin the sauce slightly for the perfect consistency.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces salty umami flavor that brings the sauce to life.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a burst of color and fresh brightness at the end.

How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and the Cajun seasoning. This step is key because it infuses the chicken with that unmistakable Cajun punch. Heat your skillet with olive oil until it shimmers, then sear the chicken on medium-high heat. Cooking it to a golden brown crust locks in juiciness while the inside cooks fully — right around 6 to 7 minutes per side. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes to keep it tender, then slice it into inviting strips or bite-sized chunks. This prep sets the flavor foundation of your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until just al dente — firm with a little bite, usually 8 to 10 minutes depending on the shape. Before draining, scoop out a cup of the starchy pasta water and hold onto it. This watery gold will help emulsify and loosen the sauce in the final steps. Drain your pasta and toss with a touch of olive oil if you want to prevent sticking, and then set it aside while you prepare the dreamy Cajun cream sauce.

Step 3: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

Using the same skillet where you cooked the chicken (no need for extra dishes), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—about 1 to 2 minutes. Next, stir in the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, letting the spices bloom in the butter’s warmth for a full minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine evenly. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly over 4 to 5 minutes. Once thickened, add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce turns smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch more Cajun or salt if needed. This sauce is the heart and soul of your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Now comes the joyful moment where everything comes together. Add your cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the Cajun cream sauce, tossing gently to coat every bite in that luscious sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, use a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach a silky, clingy consistency. Finally, fold in the sliced chicken so it’s evenly distributed. Remove from heat and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise. A few extra twists of Parmesan cheese never hurt either!

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

To elevate your dish, consider sprinkling with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes. A little sprinkle of red pepper flakes will add a lovely kick if you enjoy more heat. Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the pasta just before serving will provide a bright, zesty contrast that cuts through the creaminess beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish is quite hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad can add refreshing crunch and balance. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread are soul-soothing sides that perfectly soak up any leftover sauce. For veggies, roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or sautéed bell peppers complement the flavors nicely while adding vibrant color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in individual pasta bowls garnished with a bit of extra Parmesan and parsley to make each serving feel special. You could also layer it in a casserole dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and cheese, then bake it briefly for a bubbly, golden crust. For a playful twist, swap chicken for shrimp to create a Cajun seafood pasta that’s just as decadent and delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta stores beautifully in the fridge and tastes fantastic as leftovers. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it chilled for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more, making every bite as enjoyable, if not more.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freezing is an option but keep in mind cream-based sauces can sometimes separate when thawed. To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. Use within 1 to 2 months for best taste. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers slowly over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to maintain that creamy texture. Add a splash of broth, cream, or milk if the sauce thickens too much. You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to prevent overheating or curdling. Fresh parsley added at the end brightens up reheated pasta beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine are ideal for creamy sauces because they hold sauce well, you can use any pasta shape you love. Just adjust cooking time according to the package instructions to reach al dente perfection.

Is it possible to make this dish less spicy?

Yes! You can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or opt for a mild blend. Also, skipping or reducing red pepper flakes will soften the heat without sacrificing flavor.

Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?

Definitely! Shrimp is a great alternative that pairs wonderfully with the creamy Cajun sauce. You could also use turkey, sausage, or even tofu to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a little longer to reduce and thicken. If it’s too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water or extra broth to loosen it up while stirring continuously.

Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead and refrigerate separately. The sauce is best made fresh, but if needed, you can prepare it in advance and gently reheat with a little extra cream to refresh its texture before combining all components.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you make this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, it will swiftly become a beloved go-to for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. The irresistible blend of creamy texture, smoky spice, and tender chicken really hits the spot. So gather your ingredients and dive into this flavorful journey—your taste buds will thank you!

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 6 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender, spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken with al dente pasta smothered in a velvety, smoky cream sauce. Perfectly balanced with aromatic garlic, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese, this comforting meal delivers a bold Southern-inspired flavor with a smooth, indulgent texture. Ideal for a satisfying dinner that can be easily customized with vegetables or seafood.

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to infuse bold flavor.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temp). Remove and let rest.
Slice the Chicken: After resting, slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions (8-10 minutes) until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
Drain the Pasta: Drain pasta and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant without burning.
Add Spices: Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika; cook for 1 minute to release the spices’ aroma.
Add Cream and Broth: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring to a simmer, cooking for 4-5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
Stir in Parmesan: Add grated Parmesan and stir until melted and sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to thin sauce if too thick.
Add Chicken: Incorporate sliced chicken and toss gently to combine.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving.
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the richness of the sauce.
Sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can be added for more nutrition.
Shrimp can substitute chicken for a seafood variation.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing, Boiling, Simmering
Cuisine: American, Cajun