Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 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 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; Fresh lemon juice; Sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms; Shrimp (as a substitute for chicken)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors, yet comforts you with silky smoothness, then this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful fusion of tender, perfectly spiced chicken tossed with pasta in a lusciously creamy sauce packed full of Cajun zest, smoky paprika, and a touch of Parmesan to elevate every bite. This recipe is one of those amazing meals that feels indulgent but comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients that might already be in your kitchen. Once you try this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a weeknight favorite—rich, satisfying, and utterly crave-worthy.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the flavors just right for this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is all about using simple, honest ingredients that each play a starring role. From the perfectly seasoned chicken to the creamy sauce, each item contributes a unique texture, depth, or color that brings this dish beautifully to life.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Chicken breasts cook quickly and soak up the Cajun seasoning for that signature spicy kick.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sear the chicken evenly while adding a mild fruity richness.
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend that gives the dish its bold Southern flair.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balanced seasoning and bringing out the other flavors.
12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti: Great pasta choices that catch the creamy sauce beautifully; penne is especially good at holding sauce in its tubes.
Salt, for the pasta water: Enhances the pasta’s flavor from the inside out.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Builds the flavorful, velvety foundation of the sauce.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic warmth and depth to the dish.
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: Used again in the sauce to layer that spicy, smoky punch throughout.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smoky undertone that perfectly complements Cajun spices.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, luscious texture that makes this pasta so creamy and indulgent.
½ cup chicken broth: Balances the richness of the cream and makes the sauce silky without heaviness.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory umami boost for flavor complexity.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness at the end.

How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by generously seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and the Cajun seasoning. This ensures every bite is packed with that signature fiery flavor. Heat olive oil in a skillet until shimmering, then cook the chicken on medium-high heat until it develops a gorgeous golden crust and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juicy tenderness, then slice it into bite-sized pieces. A perfectly cooked chicken is the backbone of this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, so taking this step thoughtfully makes all the difference.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your chicken is sizzling away, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your choice of pasta—penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti—until it’s just al dente, offering a subtle chew that holds up beautifully to the rich sauce. Be sure to reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy treasure will help you adjust the sauce’s consistency later, making everything silky and cohesive. Toss the drained pasta lightly with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking—getting ready for that delicious sauce!

Step 3: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

In the same skillet you cooked the chicken (hello, flavor layers!), melt the butter over medium heat until bubbly and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and gently sauté until its aroma fills your kitchen—about 1-2 minutes, just enough to soften without burning. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, letting those spices bloom in the buttery goodness for a minute. Now, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth and whisk together. Let it simmer gently for about 4-5 minutes to thicken up into a luscious sauce. Finish by folding in the grated Parmesan cheese, which melts smoothly to enrich the sauce with that irresistible umami character. Taste and adjust seasoning as you like; the balance of spice and cream is what makes this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta so irresistible.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Now for the fun part—bringing it all together! Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy Cajun sauce and toss until each strand or piece is perfectly coated. If the sauce looks a bit too thick or clingy, add some reserved pasta water a splash at a time until you reach sleek perfection. Then, fold in the sliced chicken evenly throughout the pasta. Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A final dusting of extra Parmesan can’t hurt, either if you’re feeling indulgent. This step is where your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta truly shines, ready to be devoured.

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Adding garnishes elevates this dish from delicious to dazzling. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley brings a vibrant green freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, spicy sauce. For those who love an extra kick, a light dusting of red pepper flakes will awaken the palate even more. Just before serving, a quick squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the richness, lifting the dish to new heights of flavor balance. Simple additions like these make your bowl of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta a feast not just for the taste buds but the eyes as well.

Side Dishes

This pasta is hearty enough to be the star, but pairing it with light sides can create a well-rounded meal. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli add lovely texture and vibrant color. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are also fantastic for mopping up every last bit of that velvety sauce. Together, these sides complement the dish beautifully without overpowering the creamy Cajun magic.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress friends or family? Try serving the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in individual shallow bowls with a flair of garnishes artfully arranged on top. You could swirl the sauce and chicken just right, then finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley, Parmesan, and a few grinds of black pepper. Another fun idea is layering pasta and chicken in a casserole dish, topping with extra cheese, and broiling it for a few minutes until golden and bubbling. Whether plated simply or dressed up, the presentation can make this classic recipe feel special every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, no worries! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen after sitting a bit, but the sauce may thicken, so a quick reheat with a splash of milk or broth restores that creamy texture perfectly.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding liquid as needed to bring back the lovely creaminess without overcooking the pasta.

Reheating

Reheating is easiest on the stove over low-medium heat. Add a small amount of cream, milk, or broth to loosen the sauce and stir frequently to prevent sticking. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the sauce silky and smooth; the stovetop heat control is key to bringing this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta back to life beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more fat and flavor, making the dish even more succulent. Just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked through.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?

Yes! You can swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even shrimp for a pescatarian option. The creamy Cajun sauce works beautifully with many proteins and veggies.

How spicy is this dish? Can I make it less spicy?

The heat level depends on the Cajun seasoning used. To tone down the spice, reduce the amount of seasoning or go easy on any added red pepper flakes. The cream and cheese also help mellow out the heat.

What pasta type works best for creamy sauces?

Pasta shapes like penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni are fantastic since their texture and shape help hold onto the sauce well, ensuring every bite stays creamy and flavorful.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

You can make the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it, but it’s best to toss with freshly cooked pasta and chicken just before serving to keep everything tasting fresh and vibrant.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the kind of recipe that turns ordinary nights into comfort-filled celebrations. Rich, spicy, and perfectly balanced, it’s a dish that invites you to slow down and savor every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, I truly hope this recipe finds a lasting place in your kitchen and your heart. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and let this creamy, spicy magic transform your dinner tonight!

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 12 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

This creamy Cajun chicken pasta dish combines tender, spiced chicken breasts with a rich, velvety Cajun cream sauce tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. Bursting with bold Cajun seasoning and smoky paprika, the sauce is balanced by Parmesan cheese and heavy cream for indulgent comfort food with a spicy kick. Easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish can be customized with shrimp or sautéed vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor.

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to ensure the chicken is flavorful throughout.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from skillet and let rest.
Slice the Chicken: After resting, slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces and set aside while preparing pasta and sauce.
Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain pasta and toss with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, avoiding burning.
Add Spices: Stir in 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. Let them bloom in the butter for 1 minute to enhance flavors.
Add Cream and Broth: Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and ½ cup chicken broth. Stir and bring to a simmer. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Incorporate Parmesan: Add ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning if needed.
Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat with the sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick to achieve desired consistency.
Add Chicken and Combine: Add sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together so chicken is evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Optionally, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes on top. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor and juicier texture.
Substitute penne with fettuccine, spaghetti, or any favorite pasta shape.
Reserve pasta water helps adjust sauce thickness and binds sauce to pasta.
Make your own Cajun seasoning by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms to boost nutrition and flavor.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk but expect a thinner sauce.
Adjust spice level by increasing or reducing Cajun seasoning and adding red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Use fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the dish and cut through richness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and Boiling
Cuisine: Cajun, American