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: 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lb boneless chicken breast, sliced; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1/2 cup onion, sliced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Dish Collection

I absolutely love making Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta; it’s a dish that never fails to impress! The bold flavors of Cajun seasoning combined with creamy sauce create a comforting meal that's perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is quick to prepare yet tastes like you've spent hours in the kitchen. It's become a family favorite, and I can't wait to share it with you. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:33:36.264Z

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe is one I stumbled upon during a lazy weekend. I had some leftover chicken and decided to whip something up that would be flavorful yet comforting. The combination of Cajun spices with the creamy sauce works beautifully, creating a dish that's not only satisfying but also visually appealing!

While experimenting in the kitchen, I learned that to achieve the best flavor, it’s essential to coat the chicken evenly with the Cajun seasoning before searing it. This not only enhances the taste but also gives the chicken a lovely color. I couldn't believe how quickly the dish came together, and it became an instant hit with my family!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bold and zesty Cajun flavor balanced with creamy goodness
Quick and easy preparation for weeknight meals
Versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite veggies

      

The Perfect Pasta Choice

When it comes to creamy Cajun chicken pasta, the type of pasta you choose plays a significant role in the overall texture and flavor of the dish. Fettuccine is a classic choice, with its wide noodles able to capture the creamy sauce beautifully. Alternatively, penne's tubular shape allows it to hold onto the sauce effectively, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Whichever pasta you choose, be sure to cook it just until al dente to avoid mushiness when mixing with the sauce.

To elevate your pasta experience, consider adding a splash of the starchy pasta cooking water to the sauce before combining everything. This addition not only thickens the sauce slightly but also helps it cling better to the pasta. Aim for about 1/2 cup of pasta water, adding it gradually until your desired creaminess is achieved.

Customizing the Dish

One of the great things about creamy Cajun chicken pasta is its versatility. While this recipe uses bell peppers and onions, feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Zucchini, spinach, or even cherry tomatoes can bring an extra layer of flavor and nutrition to the dish. Just remember to keep the cook times in mind; for example, spinach will wilt quickly, needing only a minute or two to cook down.

If you're looking for a spicier kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when sautéing the vegetables. On the flip side, for a milder version, you could substitute the Cajun seasoning with a blend of Italian herbs. Just be aware that this will significantly change the flavor profile of the dish, so adjust accordingly to your taste.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb boneless chicken breast, sliced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1/2 cup onion, sliced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Preparation

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken slices with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until smooth.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and seared chicken back to the skillet. Toss until everything is coated in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious meal!

Notes

Pro Tips

For extra heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning mix. Feel free to throw in other vegetables like spinach or zucchini to enhance the dish's nutrition.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover creamy Cajun chicken pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the dish’s creamy texture, it's best to reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce seems too thick upon reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to loosen it up.

If you prefer, creamy pasta dishes like this one can also be frozen, although it may slightly alter the texture after thawing. When freezing, ensure the dish is cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should be consumed within 2-3 months for the best quality. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your sauce isn't as creamy as you'd like, consider adjusting the ratio of heavy cream to chicken broth. A 1:1 ratio often yields a rich sauce, but if it's too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it longer to reduce the liquid. Be cautious not to let it boil too vigorously, as that could lead to separation of the cream.

Another common issue is overcooking the chicken, which can lead to dryness. Ensure that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F, and remove it from the skillet as soon as it reaches that temperature. This will keep it juicy and tender, complementing the overall lusciousness of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp works wonderfully in this dish. Just sauté them for a few minutes until they turn pink.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat, simply add more Cajun seasoning or include some diced jalapeños.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce and chicken ahead of time. Just combine everything before serving for best results.