This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a tasty dish that brings lots of flavor to your dinner table. Juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and a kick of Cajun spice make it truly special!
Trust me, the combination of creamy and spicy is just a match made in heaven! I love serving it with a side salad for a complete meal. You’ll want to make it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using penne or fettuccine for this dish. However, you can easily swap them for spaghetti, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta if that suits your dietary preferences.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a go-to for this recipe. If you want to save time, rotisserie chicken works well too! A great choice if you have leftovers from another meal.
Cajun Seasoning: I love using a homemade blend for freshness. But store-bought is perfect too. If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount or choose a mild version. You could also use creole seasoning for a different flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or use coconut cream if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative. The texture won’t be quite the same, but it will still taste good!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken to the right doneness is key in this recipe. Here’s how to do it well:
- Make sure to heat your skillet properly before adding the chicken. This helps to sear and lock in juices.
- Cook the chicken in strips to allow for even cooking. Make sure not to crowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Rest your chicken for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy before returning it to the sauce.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta or fettuccine
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy Cajun chicken pasta will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and cooking the pasta, and another 20 minutes for cooking the chicken and making the sauce. A quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your penne or fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, season your sliced chicken breasts with the Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter. Once it’s melted, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced bell peppers. Sauté everything for about 4-5 minutes until the veggies are softened.
4. Combine Liquids:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, making sure to keep an eye on it.
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is melted and the sauce becomes slightly thickened. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
6. Mix Everything Together:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir well to coat with the creamy sauce. Then, add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful, creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine are great options, you can substitute them with other pasta types like spaghetti, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and oregano. Adjust the spice level to your taste for an equally flavorful dish!
How Can I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce as it can thicken when refrigerated.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add more veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the bell peppers to incorporate even more flavor and nutrients into your creamy Cajun chicken pasta!
