Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect recipe for those who love bold flavors wrapped in a comforting, creamy embrace. This dish combines juicy, seasoned chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich sauce infused with the spicy, smoky essence of Cajun seasoning. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers restaurant-quality taste in the comfort of your own home.
Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner with friends, this recipe is simple to make yet packed with flavor. The creamy sauce balances the Cajun spice perfectly, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and addictive. With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 40 minutes.
Get ready to wow your taste buds with this irresistibly creamy, slightly spicy pasta dish!
2. Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne or linguine works best)
- 2 medium chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
3. Directions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: Toss the diced chicken with Cajun seasoning, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the bell peppers and sauté until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and tomato paste. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens.
- Combine everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
4. How to Prepare
The key to preparing Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is to balance the bold Cajun spices with the creaminess of the sauce. Sautéing the vegetables adds sweetness that complements the spice, while Parmesan cheese enhances the sauce’s richness. Cooking the chicken until golden ensures it stays juicy and flavorful.
For an extra kick, sprinkle additional Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes over the finished dish.
5. Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe serves 4 hearty portions.
7. FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken works well. Add it to the sauce just before tossing with the pasta.
2. How do I make it less spicy?
Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a milder spice blend.
3. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini are great additions to this dish.
4. Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.
8. Conclusion
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a true comfort food classic. With its perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and hearty pasta, it’s a dish that satisfies every craving. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, this recipe is ideal for any occasion, from busy weeknight dinners to weekend indulgences.
Try it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Serve it with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for the ultimate meal!