Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This creamy Cajun chicken pasta delivers a satisfying weeknight dinner with bold flavors and a smooth, comforting sauce. It balances the smoky, spicy Cajun seasoning with tender chicken and crisp vegetables all tied together with rich cream and Parmesan.

I often make this when I want something cozy but with a bit of a kick. The creamy sauce makes it feel special even on busy nights.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: Two tablespoons for a flavorful base and to keep chicken juicy
• Chicken breast: One pound the lean protein centerpiece, choose fresh chicken with a pink hue and firm texture
• Cajun seasoning: Two teaspoons it packs bold smoky spice, adjust to taste but pick a blend without fillers
• Paprika: One teaspoon adds mild smoky depth look for vibrant red color indicating freshness
• Onion: One diced for sweetness and aroma, select firm onions with tight skin
• Garlic cloves: Three minced essential for warmth and flavor, use fresh to avoid bitterness
• Bell peppers: Sliced bring crunch and a hint of sweetness choose bright, firm peppers for best texture
• Chicken broth: Three cups for cooking the pasta and adding savory background, homemade or low sodium store-bought works well
• Heavy cream: One cup creates the luscious sauce with richness, use fresh cream with at least 36 percent fat
• Penne pasta: Twelve ounces prefers sturdy shapes for holding the sauce, now is a good time to choose durum wheat for bite
• Parmesan cheese: Half cup stirred in for nutty umami finish, freshly grated gives best melt and flavor

Instructions

Build the Flavor Base:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook slowly for about five minutes until translucent and sweet. This gentle cooking unlocks the onion’s natural sugars to deepen your sauce flavor.

Cook The Chicken with Spices:

Add chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces to the skillet. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning and paprika right on top then cook the chicken through stirring occasionally. Cooking the chicken with spices now allows the seasoning to adhere well and release aroma.

Sauté Vegetables:

Add sliced bell peppers and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for three to four minutes until peppers soften slightly but still hold some crunch and garlic turns fragrant but not burnt. This step brightens the dish with fresh vegetable flavor.

Simmer Pasta in Broth:

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add penne pasta directly into the skillet. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the savory broth giving every bite great flavor. Cook uncovered until pasta is tender but still al dente about ten minutes.

Finish with Cream and Cheese:

Lower heat and stir in heavy cream followed by grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is creamy and cheese is melted. Let everything warm through for a minute or two. Adjust seasoning as needed. The cream and cheese mellow the spices and create that irresistible velvety texture.

I love how the Cajun seasoning becomes mellow but still lively once mixed with cream. This dish reminds me of lazy weekend dinners with good company where everyone grabs pasta and digs in smiling.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use within four days for best texture and flavor. When reheating add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickened too much.

Ingredient Swaps

Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a richer taste though cooking time may vary slightly. For dairy free option swap heavy cream with coconut milk and Parmesan with nutritional yeast. Bell peppers can be replaced with zucchini or mushrooms depending on your preference.

Serving Ideas

Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up extra sauce. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly. For a bit of extra heat add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce on top.

This pasta is easy to prepare yet full of depth and comfort making it a perfect option for busy nights or special dinners alike.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of pasta works best with this dish?

Penne pasta is ideal as it holds the creamy sauce well, but rigatoni or fusilli are good alternatives too.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Increase or decrease the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your heat preference, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra kick.

→ Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, shrimp or turkey breast can be used; cook them similarly to maintain tenderness and flavor.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Full-fat coconut milk or half-and-half can be used to create a creamy texture with a slightly different flavor profile.

→ How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta varieties and ensure the chicken broth used is gluten-free to keep the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.