Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound chicken breast, sliced; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the perfect blend of flavors with this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe. Tender chicken is sautéed with a medley of Cajun spices and tossed with al dente pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. This comforting dish delivers a satisfying kick that will excite your taste buds and is easy enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2025-12-13T17:14:20.809Z

A Taste of Cajun Delight

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta brings a taste of the South into your kitchen. With its bold flavors, this dish celebrates the vibrant culinary traditions of Cajun cooking. The perfect blend of spices infuses the tender chicken with a distinctive kick that pairs wonderfully with the smooth and creamy sauce. You'll find that each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor, making it an instant favorite for both family dinners and gatherings.

The combination of the rich heavy cream and the sharpness of Parmesan cheese creates a luscious sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. This balance between richness and spice ensures that the meal remains satisfying without being overwhelming. Pair it with a simple green salad or a crusty piece of bread, and you have a complete meal that is sure to impress.

Easy Weeknight Cooking

One of the best aspects of this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe is its simplicity. Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a convenient choice for families on the go. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you won't need to spend hours in the kitchen to enjoy gourmet flavors at home.

Additionally, this recipe is versatile. You can easily adjust the level of spice to suit your family's taste preferences. Whether you prefer a milder sauce or want to crank up the heat with extra Cajun seasoning, this dish accommodates your desires, allowing everyone at the table to enjoy a meal tailored to their liking.

Perfect for Special Occasions

While Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is ideal for a quick weeknight meal, it also shines at special gatherings. The rich flavors and elegant presentation make it an impressive dish for entertaining guests. Serve it at dinner parties, holiday celebrations, or romantic dinners at home, and watch as your friends and family savor each bite.

Consider pairing this pasta dish with a robust red wine or a refreshing iced tea for a perfect dining experience. The creamy, spicy components of the pasta play beautifully against a backdrop of full-bodied flavors, ensuring your meal is not only delicious but memorable.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound chicken breast, sliced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine or penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the sliced chicken and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Toss well to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is simple. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce's creaminess.

For best results, it's recommended to consume this dish fresh, as pasta can absorb sauce, leading to changes in texture when reheated. If you're planning to make this ahead of time, consider cooking the pasta and sauce separately, combining them just before serving.

Customizing Your Dish

This dish is wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to experiment with different proteins like shrimp or sausage, which can easily replace the chicken for a delightful variation. You can also incorporate your favorite vegetables—like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms—for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to sauté them along with the chicken for a harmonious blend of tastes.

For those seeking a lighter alternative, consider using whole wheat pasta or substituting Greek yogurt for some of the heavy cream. These simple swaps maintain the integrity of the dish while providing a healthier twist that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?

Yes, shrimp is a great alternative and will cook quickly in the creamy sauce.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the pasta for a gluten-free version.