Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish that brings together the bold spices of Cajun seasoning with the richness of a creamy cheese sauce. Grilled or pan-seared chicken breasts are seasoned to perfection, sliced, and served over al dente spaghetti or fettuccine coated in a velvety, cheesy sauce with just the right amount of spice. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend indulgence, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Cajun Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Cajun Pasta Sauce:
3 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp onion powder
1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
300g (about 10 oz) spaghetti or fettuccine, cooked al dente
Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry and rub both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
2. Make the Sauce:
In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add 3 tbsp butter.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer.
Mix in Parmesan cheese, paprika, onion powder, and Cajun seasoning. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce thickens (4–5 minutes).
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Combine:
Add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce.
Toss until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
Plate the pasta and top with sliced Cajun chicken.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
Don’t Overcook Chicken: Use a thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Use Fresh Parmesan: It melts better and adds richer flavor.
Reserve Pasta Water: Add a splash to thin out the sauce if needed.
Balance the Spice: Adjust Cajun seasoning based on your heat tolerance.
Cream Options: Substitute half-and-half or milk for a lighter version (though it may be less creamy).
Variations
Shrimp Cajun Pasta: Swap chicken for shrimp and sauté quickly (2–3 mins per side).
Vegetarian Version: Use grilled mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
Add Veggies: Include spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed bell peppers for color and nutrients.
Extra Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Cheese Swap: Try Asiago, Romano, or a mix of Italian cheeses for variation.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prep the chicken and sauce in advance, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh. Reheat everything gently and add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens.
Q: Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?
A: Yes! But be mindful of the salt content—taste and adjust accordingly.
Q: Can I use another pasta shape?
A: Absolutely. Penne, linguine, or rigatoni work great too.
Q: Is it freezer-friendly?
A: Cream-based sauces may separate when frozen, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Estimated values based on 4 servings
Calories: 680
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 750mg
Conclusion
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that packs a punch of flavor with its smoky, spicy Cajun seasoning and silky, cheesy sauce. It’s versatile, simple to prepare, and sure to satisfy cravings for something rich and savory. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just treating yourself, this dish is a guaranteed winner on the dinner table. Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complete your meal.