Print

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta – Easy Weeknight Dinner Hero

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in bowl with Parmesan
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a bold, flavor-packed dinner that brings together seasoned chicken, tender pasta, and a rich Cajun-inspired cream sauce. With smoky spices, garlic, and a splash of heavy cream, this comforting dish is indulgent, spicy, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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 (optional)
  • Sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms (optional)
  • Shrimp (optional substitution for chicken)

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning on both sides.

2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once hot, sear the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

3. Remove chicken from skillet and let rest. After resting, slice into strips or bite-sized pieces and set aside.

4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.

5. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

6. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

7. Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Let the spices bloom for 1 minute.

8. Add heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring to a simmer, cooking for 4–5 minutes to thicken slightly.

9. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

10. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

11. Add sliced chicken to the skillet and mix to combine.

12. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.

Sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach make great additions for added nutrition.

Swap chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist on this creamy Cajun pasta.

Find it online: https://cookingwithramsay.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-pasta/