Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti; Salt, for the pasta water; 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); Red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh lemon juice (for serving); Sautéed vegetables (optional); Shrimp (optional, for substitution)

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why make this recipe

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a dish full of flavor that will impress your family and friends. It combines juicy chicken with a rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. The Cajun seasoning brings a delightful heat that makes each bite exciting. This recipe is easy to follow, and you can customize it to your taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, this recipe is sure to deliver.

how to make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are quick to cook and absorb the Cajun seasoning well. You could also use thighs for more flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the chicken. Olive oil adds a mild flavor and helps sear the chicken evenly.
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: This is the key to the dish’s bold flavor. You can either use store-bought Cajun seasoning or make your own blend.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken and ensuring it has enough flavor.
12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti: Any long or short pasta will work, but penne and fettuccine are great choices for creamy sauces.
Salt, for the pasta water: Seasoning the pasta water enhances the flavor of the pasta.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: The butter forms the base of the creamy sauce, adding richness and flavor.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings aromatic depth to the sauce.
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: Adding Cajun seasoning to the sauce intensifies the dish’s flavor profile.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: For a smoky flavor that complements the Cajun seasoning and adds depth to the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: The heavy cream makes the sauce velvety and rich, balancing the heat from the Cajun spices.
½ cup chicken broth: Chicken broth adds a savory base to the sauce and helps thin it out slightly for a smoother texture.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, umami depth to the sauce, making it extra flavorful.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For garnish and added freshness.
Red pepper flakes: For an extra kick of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.
Fresh lemon juice: A squeeze of lemon just before serving will brighten the dish and balance the richness.
Sautéed vegetables: Add sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Shrimp: Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist on this Cajun pasta.

Directions:

First Step: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until it’s fully cooked. Remove from the pan and let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Second Step: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Third Step: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
In the same pan used for the chicken, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Add Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, stirring well. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, mixing until smooth. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.

Fourth Step: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the cream sauce, tossing everything together until well coated. If desired, add sautéed vegetables or shrimp at this stage.

how to serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Serve the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top just before serving will enhance the flavors. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

how to store Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Store any leftover Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.

tips to make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

For a spicier dish, add more Cajun seasoning or extra red pepper flakes.
Try adding more veggies like bell peppers or spinach to make it healthier.
If you prefer a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

variation

You can easily modify this recipe by swapping out the chicken for shrimp or adding different vegetables based on your preference. For a vegetarian option, use mushrooms or tofu as the protein.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just combine everything just before serving, and it will taste fresh.

2. Is this pasta dish spicy?
It has a bit of kick due to the Cajun seasoning, but you can adjust it according to your heat preference by adding less seasoning or omitting the red pepper flakes.

3. Can I freeze Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?
While you can freeze it, the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta