Go Back
–+ servings
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: A Quick and Indulgent Delight

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, bold Cajun flavors, and a rich cream sauce for a quick and indulgent meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Cajun
Servings 4 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Large pot

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts You could also use thighs for more flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking the chicken.
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning This is the key to the dish’s bold flavor.
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta

  • 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti Any long or short pasta will work.
  • Salt for the pasta water

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter The butter forms the base of the creamy sauce.
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Intensifies the flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika For a smoky flavor.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Makes the sauce velvety and rich.
  • ½ cup chicken broth Adds a savory base to the sauce.
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds salty, umami depth.
  • Fresh parsley chopped (optional)

Optional Garnishes and Variations

  • Red pepper flakes For an extra kick of heat.
  • Fresh lemon juice A squeeze of lemon just before serving.
  • Sautéed vegetables For extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Shrimp Substitute for chicken if desired.

Instructions
 

First Step: Prepare the Chicken

  • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning on both sides.
  • Cook the chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest, then slice it into strips.

Second Step: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes.
  • Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
  • Drain the pasta and set it aside, tossing with a small amount of olive oil.

Third Step: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

  • In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
  • Add the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, stirring to let the spices bloom.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine and simmer for 4-5 minutes.
  • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Fourth Step: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat.
  • Add the sliced chicken and toss everything together until well mixed.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Optional garnishes like red pepper flakes and fresh lemon juice can enhance the dish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg
Keyword Cajun cooking, Chicken, Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, creamy sauce, pasta, quick meal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!