Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a bold, comforting dish that combines smoky spice with a rich cream sauce and tender seared chicken. It’s packed with flavor, ready in under an hour, and perfect for cozy weeknights or impressing guests. Whether you like it spicy or mellow, this pasta is customizable, satisfying, and sure to become a household favorite.
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan (preferably cast iron or stainless steel)
- Pasta pot
- Tongs or spatula
- Knife + cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Optional: Microplane for fresh Parmesan
- Colander
- Thermometer (for chicken temp, optional)
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red or yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: splash of chicken broth or white wine, lemon juice, chopped parsley
Instructions
Season the Chicken
- Slice chicken into strips. Coat evenly with Cajun seasoning and let rest for 10–15 minutes.
Sear the Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and rest.
Cook the Pasta
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, lower heat and add 1 tbsp oil or butter. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until soft (about 3–4 minutes). Deglaze with wine or broth if using.
Add Cream & Cheese
- Pour in cream and stir in Parmesan. Simmer gently (don’t boil) for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Add more Cajun seasoning to taste.
Combine & Finish
- Return sliced chicken to the skillet. Add drained pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss until everything is creamy and coated. Let rest 1–2 minutes off heat before serving.
Serve & Garnish
- Serve with fresh parsley, a lemon wedge, and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Make it lighter: Use half-and-half or Greek yogurt (added off heat) instead of heavy cream.
- Spice level: Adjust Cajun seasoning or add cayenne/red pepper flakes if you like it hotter.
- Cheesy twist: Add shredded mozzarella and broil for a melted topping.
- Vegetarian swap: Use mushrooms or plant-based meat.
- Storage: Keeps for 3–4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.