Description
This Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish featuring perfectly seasoned Cajun-spiced chicken breasts served over creamy, cheesy pasta. The rich sauce is made with butter, garlic, heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese, creating a smooth and flavorful coating for fettuccine or penne pasta. Garnished with fresh parsley, this meal delivers a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and creamy flavors that will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cajun Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra smoky flavor)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for the sauce)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or more for desired consistency)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set aside for later use.
- Prepare the Cajun Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chicken breasts and cook for approximately 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing into thin strips.
- Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce and toss it well to ensure all noodles are evenly coated. Gently fold in the sliced Cajun chicken. Adjust the sauce consistency with additional chicken broth or pasta water if needed.
- Serve: Plate the creamy Cajun chicken pasta, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this flavorful and comforting dish.
Notes
- Customizations: Add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Homemade Cajun Seasoning: Combine 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp oregano, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper for a fresh homemade blend.
- Spicy Option: Increase the cayenne pepper in the seasoning or add hot sauce to the sauce for more heat.
