Go Back
+ servings
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: Your New Go-To Comfort Dish

Delve into the flavors of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, a perfect comfort dish for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Tender and juicy; thighs can also bring added flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Used for searing, offering a subtle richness to the chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning The star of the show, granting that distinctive spicy kick.
  • to taste Salt Essential for tuning the overall flavor.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for tuning the overall flavor.
For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Pasta Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti serves as the base.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds richness to the sauce.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced for depth and aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Enhances smokiness; pairs with Cajun seasoning.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Creates a luxurious, velvety sauce.
  • ½ cup Chicken Broth Adds savory richness.
  • ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese Boosts umami flavor.
Optional Garnishes
  • to taste Fresh Parsley Adds a pop of freshness.
  • to taste Red Pepper Flakes For extra heat.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Season chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  2. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, roughly 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain pasta.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute, then add an extra teaspoon of Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Gradually pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, let simmer until slightly thickened.
  4. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Add sliced chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. If thick, add reserved pasta water.
  5. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve garnished with parsley and red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding cream or broth as needed.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!