Cajun Chicken Pasta is a creamy, spicy, and flavorful dish that brings together the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, tender chicken, and a rich, cheesy sauce. This dish is perfect for those who love a little heat with their pasta and want a satisfying meal that comes together in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold and Spicy Flavor – The Cajun seasoning adds a robust and smoky heat that elevates this dish.
Creamy and Comforting – A rich, cheesy sauce balances the spice, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Quick and Easy – This dish is ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Customizable – You can adjust the spice level and add vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
Restaurant-Quality – Enjoy a high-quality, flavorful pasta dish at home without the takeout price.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Cajun seasoning
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic, minced
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, grated
Chicken broth
Penne or fettuccine pasta
Bell peppers, sliced
Onion, chopped
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Salt and black pepper

Directions

Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Season the Chicken – Coat the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning evenly on both sides.
Sauté the Chicken – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and slice into strips.
Sauté the Vegetables – In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened.
Make the Sauce – Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Add the Cheese – Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens.
Combine Everything – Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with fresh parsley and cherry tomatoes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Protein Options – Swap the chicken for shrimp, sausage, or tofu for a different twist.
Vegetable Additions – Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
Spice Level – Adjust the Cajun seasoning to make it milder or spicier.
Dairy-Free Option – Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Low-Carb Version – Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating – Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy.
Freezing – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild version to tone down the heat.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, fettuccine, penne, rigatoni, or any pasta of your choice will work well.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of cornstarch can be used as a lighter alternative.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, store the sauce separately and mix it with the pasta before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying out?

Reheat on the stove with a little extra broth or cream to restore moisture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Absolutely, but homemade Cajun seasoning allows you to control the spice level and ingredients.

What type of cheese works best?

Parmesan is ideal, but you can also use mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a creamier texture.

Can I add mushrooms to this recipe?

Yes, mushrooms add a great umami flavor and pair well with the creamy sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream while stirring.

Conclusion

Cajun Chicken Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, bold spices, and customizable options, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this pasta dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors right at home. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, homemade Cajun-inspired meal!