Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This creamy Cajun chicken pasta brings a perfect balance of spice and richness that comes together quickly for satisfying weeknight dinners. The combination of tender chicken, spicy sauce, and melted cheese feels indulgent without requiring complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.

I first tossed this recipe together on a whim when craving something cozy but bold. It is now a regular in my rotation for when I want a comforting meal with a kick.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provide lean protein that absorbs the Cajun spices beautifully
• Cajun seasoning: creates the smoky and spicy vibe essential to the dish try to use a blend with paprika and garlic for depth
• Fettuccine or penne pasta: holds the sauce well choose a good quality pasta for better texture
• Heavy cream: gives the sauce its signature velvety richness—whole or heavy whipping cream works best
• Freshly grated Parmesan: melts smoothly and adds savory sharpness avoid pre-grated varieties for best flavor
• Bell peppers: add sweetness and color contrast pick fresh vibrant ones with firm skin
• Garlic cloves minced fresh: bring aromatic warmth that builds the creamy sauce flavor
• Olive oil: for sautéing chicken and vegetables choose extra virgin for a clean taste
• Fresh parsley: as garnish adds brightness and a touch of herbal freshness if desired

Instructions

Build The Chicken:

Season the chicken breasts generously on both sides with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Cook the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes per side allowing a golden brown crust to form. Make sure the chicken is cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and let rest to retain juices before slicing it thinly.

Cook The Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine or penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta reserving a cup of the cooking water before draining completely.

Sauté Vegetables And Garlic:

Using the same skillet add the chopped bell peppers and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes over medium heat until the peppers soften and garlic becomes fragrant without browning.

Create The Sauce:

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream gradually. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese little by little continuously stirring until it melts and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick loosen it by adding small amounts of reserved pasta water as needed.

Combine And Serve:

Add the drained pasta into the sauce in the skillet. Toss well so the noodles soak up the sauce evenly. Arrange sliced chicken over the pasta and mix lightly to combine all components uniformly. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color if you like.

The Cajun seasoning really is the star here. The first time I made this my kitchen smelled like a Creole café. My family loved how the smoky spices warmed everyone up on a chilly evening and we sometimes swap bell peppers for a mix of colorful sweet peppers depending on the season.

Storage Tips

Store leftover pasta and chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat warm gently on the stove adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce’s creaminess without drying it out.

Ingredient Swaps

If you prefer less heat reduce the Cajun seasoning or substitute with smoked paprika and a pinch of black pepper. You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half mixed with a bit of flour to keep it lighter but still creamy. Any type of firm pasta works well though wider noodles hold sauce best.

Serving Ideas

Pair this pasta with a green side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or buttery garlic bread for a classic combo. A glass of chilled white wine or a light beer complements the Cajun spices beautifully.

This dish is the perfect quick comfort meal with a flavorful kick. Enjoy it fresh for best results and store leftovers properly to savor again.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of pasta works best with this dish?

Fettuccine or penne both hold the creamy sauce well, balancing texture and flavor perfectly.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Modify the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your heat preference, starting with less and adding gradually.

→ Can I substitute heavy cream for a lighter option?

Light cream or half-and-half may be used but expect a thinner sauce and less richness.

→ Should the chicken be rested after cooking?

Yes, letting the chicken rest keeps it juicy and allows the juices to redistribute before slicing.

→ What is the purpose of reserved pasta water?

Adding reserved pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency and helps it cling to the pasta better.