If you’re searching for a dinner that strikes the perfect balance of creamy indulgence and lively, spicy flavor, look no further than Cajun Chicken Pasta. With tender strips of chicken tossed in a velvety Parmesan-infused sauce, vibrant bell peppers and red onion, and that unmistakable kick of Cajun seasoning, this comforting classic creates a party in every bite. It’s ready in just 30 minutes and never fails to impress family or guests — even picky eaters fall head over heels for this irresistible one-pan wonder! Here’s how you can bring restaurant-style Cajun Chicken Pasta to your own table tonight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe keeps things simple yet flavorful, relying on pantry staples and fresh veggies to deliver bold color, creamy texture, and signature spice. Every ingredient plays its part in making the dish crave-worthy.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken keeps the pasta hearty and loaded with lean protein.
- Cajun seasoning: Divided for marinating the chicken and seasoning the sauce — use your favorite blend for just the right amount of heat!
- Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken beautifully and adds rich flavor to the sautéed veggies.
- Pasta (fettuccine or penne): Holds onto all that creamy, spicy sauce; choose gluten-free if needed.
- Red and yellow bell peppers: Colorful, sweet, and slightly crisp — they balance out the spice and add gorgeous contrast.
- Red onion: Adds subtle sweetness and a lovely bite to the mix.
- Garlic: Three cloves offer just enough savory punch and aroma.
- Heavy cream: Delivers a silky, indulgent base for the sauce that clings to every noodle.
- Chicken broth: Lightens the cream, adds flavor, and keeps the sauce from being overly rich.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best for gooey, salty-creamy sauciness.
- Unsalted butter: Enriches the sauce and helps everything come together smoothly.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for rounding out all the flavors — taste as you go!
- Fresh parsley: Chopped for a fresh, vibrant garnish that lifts the whole plate.
How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a generous pot of salted water to a boil and cook your fettuccine or penne pasta according to the package instructions. You want it perfectly al dente so it can soak up the Cajun sauce without going mushy. Once done, drain and set aside — but don’t forget to save a splash of the pasta water just in case you want to adjust your sauce later.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
While your pasta is bubbling away, toss the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, coating every piece for maximum flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high, then add the chicken strips in a single layer. Sear for about 5 to 6 minutes, letting them develop a nice golden crust while cooking through. Once the chicken is ready, transfer it to a plate and keep it nearby for later.
Step 3: Sauté Veggies
In the same skillet (no need to wash — those browned bits add loads of flavor!), add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers and the red onion. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the veggies are tender but still a bit crisp. Toss in the garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. It’s starting to smell absolutely delicious!
Step 4: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, butter, and the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir everything together, letting the flavors meld and the sauce simmer gently for about 3 to 4 minutes. Next, sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and keep stirring until the sauce is creamy, smooth, and slightly thickened — this is the heart of Cajun Chicken Pasta!
Step 5: Combine Everything and Serve
Add the drained pasta and cooked chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles are glossy and evenly coated in the rich, spicy sauce. Taste and add salt and black pepper if needed. Sprinkle with chopped parsley just before serving to add a burst of freshness and color. You’ve officially made Cajun Chicken Pasta magic!
How to Serve Cajun Chicken Pasta
Garnishes
A flourish of chopped fresh parsley brightens up the plate and adds a fresh burst to balance the creamy sauce. For an extra-special touch, try an extra sprinkle of Parmesan or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little more heat. A light squeeze of lemon can also wake up all the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Cajun Chicken Pasta is hearty enough to be the star of your table, but it truly shines when paired with crusty garlic bread or buttery breadsticks for soaking up every last bit of sauce. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness and gives your meal that perfect fresh finish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Cajun Chicken Pasta in individual bowls with a little swirl of extra sauce and a fancy sprinkle of parsley. If you’re entertaining, present it family-style in a large pasta bowl, letting everyone dig in together. Or, pile it high in a deep dish, top with generous shavings of Parmesan, and finish with a crack of black pepper for that classic restaurant feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Cajun Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld overnight, often making the dish taste even better the next day. Just be sure to cool everything completely before storing to keep it fresh and safe.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze your Cajun Chicken Pasta, let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. The creamy sauce may separate a bit on thawing, but a gentle stir when reheating will help bring it back together. For best results, enjoy within 2 months.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Cajun Chicken Pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce. If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the sauce to split.
FAQs
Can I make Cajun Chicken Pasta less spicy?
Absolutely! Start with less Cajun seasoning and taste as you go. You can always add more at the end, or even mix in a bit of smoked paprika for flavor without the extra heat.
What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Fettuccine is traditional and does a great job of catching the sauce, but penne or any pasta that holds sauce well will work beautifully. Use gluten-free pasta if you need!
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Definitely! Cajun Chicken Pasta is just as tasty with shrimp, andouille sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Adjust your cooking times as needed for each variation.
Can I make this dish ahead for entertaining?
Yes, you can prepare Cajun Chicken Pasta a few hours ahead and warm it gently before serving. If possible, add a splash of cream or broth when reheating to keep the sauce luscious and smooth.
How do I lighten up the sauce?
For a lighter take, use half-and-half or even evaporated milk in place of heavy cream. You’ll get a creamy texture with less richness, and the sauce will still cling to every noodle.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Chicken Pasta is truly a dish worth savoring, bursting with bold flavors and creamy comfort that bring people together around the table. Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes your go-to for cozy weeknights and dinner parties alike — it’s that loved! Give it a try, and experience why this recipe is a favorite in so many kitchens.
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Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and creamy dish that’s perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. Tender strips of chicken are seasoned with Cajun spices, then combined with colorful bell peppers, onions, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Served over fettuccine or penne pasta, this dish is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
For the Cajun Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Prepare the pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- Sear the chicken: Season the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Sear in olive oil until browned and cooked through.
- Sauté veggies: In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers, onion, and garlic until tender.
- Make the sauce: Add cream, broth, butter, and Cajun seasoning. Simmer, then add Parmesan cheese.
- Combine and serve: Toss cooked pasta and chicken in the sauce until coated. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version
- Serve with garlic bread and salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
