The Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is one of those comfort meals you’ll want to make over and over. It combines tender, juicy chicken with pasta tossed in a velvety Cajun cream sauce. Bold spices, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream come together for a dish that feels indulgent yet easy to prepare.
With every forkful, you’ll enjoy smoky heat balanced by creamy richness, making this pasta perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
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The Story Behind This Recipe
Cajun Cuisine Meets Classic Pasta
Cajun cooking is known for its bold seasoning blends that layer smoky, spicy, and savory notes. Pairing this with a creamy pasta dish creates a fusion that is deeply satisfying. Pasta provides the perfect canvas to absorb the flavors of Cajun spices, while cream and Parmesan mellow the heat.
Why Cream and Cajun Seasoning Work So Well
The cream softens the edges of the spices without dulling their impact. Every spoonful offers a warm balance of richness and heat, while garlic and smoked paprika deepen the flavor. Parmesan ties everything together, adding saltiness and umami.
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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
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Description
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, bold Cajun spices, and a rich cream sauce for a comforting, flavorful dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti
Salt for pasta water
For the Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Optional Garnishes and Variations:
Red pepper flakes
Fresh lemon juice
Sautéed vegetables
Shrimp
Instructions
1. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken 6–7 minutes per side. Rest, then slice.
3. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Drain.
4. Melt butter in skillet. Sauté garlic 1–2 minutes.
5. Add Cajun seasoning and paprika. Stir to bloom spices.
6. Pour in cream and broth. Simmer 4–5 minutes until thickened.
7. Stir in Parmesan until sauce is smooth.
8. Add pasta and toss in sauce. Use pasta water if needed.
9. Add sliced chicken, toss, and garnish with parsley.
10. Serve warm with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
For added spice, sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Store leftovers in refrigerator up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth.
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Nutrition
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Ingredients and Preparation
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti
- Salt, for pasta water
For the Sauce
- 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)
Optional Garnishes and Variations
- Red pepper flakes
- Fresh lemon juice
- Sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms
- Shrimp instead of chicken
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Large pot
- Knife and cutting board
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Preparing the Chicken
- Season chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove, let rest, then slice into strips.
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
Making the Cajun Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter.
- Sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Let spices bloom.
- Add cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Simmer 4–5 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan until melted and sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning.
Combining Pasta, Sauce, and Chicken
- Add pasta to the skillet and toss in the sauce.
- If too thick, add reserved pasta water until creamy.
- Add sliced chicken and mix well.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
Best Occasions for This Dish
This creamy Cajun pasta shines at family dinners, potlucks, or romantic evenings. It’s hearty enough to be the centerpiece but elegant enough for entertaining.
Perfect Pairings
- Serve with garlic bread or Classic Vanilla Cupcakes for a sweet finish.
- Pair with green salad for a lighter balance.
- Drinks like iced tea, white wine, or sparkling water complement the rich sauce.
Storage and Reheating
How to Store
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating Tips
Warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream. Avoid overheating, as cream sauces can separate.
Can It Be Frozen?
Yes, but cream-based sauces may change texture slightly. Freeze in portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
Variations and Twists
Seafood Cajun Pasta
Substitute shrimp for chicken and cook them in the same skillet before preparing the sauce.
Veggie Boost
Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to increase nutrition and texture.
Extra Heat
Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or drizzle chili oil for a spicier kick
FAQ Section
Can I make this pasta less spicy?
Yes, reduce Cajun seasoning and paprika, and balance with extra cream or Parmesan.
Which pasta shape works best?
Penne holds sauce in its ridges, while fettuccine clings well to creamy sauces. Both work beautifully.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and confirm your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.
Is there a lighter version of the sauce?
You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
Conclusion
The Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe brings bold Cajun spices together with velvety cream and tender chicken. This dish is flavorful, comforting, and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights or festive dinners. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation.
