Cajun Chicken Pasta is a creamy, spicy, and soul-satisfying dish made with seasoned chicken breast, tender pasta, and a bold Cajun cream sauce. It’s one of those meals that brings restaurant-style flavor straight to your kitchen—without any fuss. Originating from Louisiana’s Cajun roots, this dish perfectly balances heat and richness. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight dinner or looking to impress at a dinner party, Cajun Chicken Pasta is a real winner. It’s simple, bold, and downright delicious. Let’s dive into the world of spicy, creamy, cheesy goodness.
Quick Facts
| Course | Dinner / Main |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Cajun / American |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Servings | 4 |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 25 minutes |
| Calories | 680 per serving |
Equipment Needed
Before you get cooking, let’s make sure your kitchen is prepped. Having the right tools will save you time and keep things running smoothly.
- Large skillet or sauté pan: Nonstick or cast iron works best for searing chicken and cooking the sauce.
- Medium pot: For boiling pasta.
- Tongs: Handy for flipping chicken.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring the sauce without scratching your pan.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board: For slicing chicken and prepping veggies.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy matters in seasoning.
- Colander or strainer: To drain the pasta properly.
- Paper towels: For patting the chicken dry before seasoning.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need for a flavorful Cajun Chicken Pasta:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or more, to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step-by-step Cooking Direction:
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a medium pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat chicken dry. Rub with Cajun seasoning.
- Cook the chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked. Remove and rest, then slice thin.
- Sauté veggies: In the same skillet, add butter. Sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Make the sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in Cajun seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
- Combine: Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat well.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a touch of extra Parmesan if you like.
Essential Note:
Always taste your sauce before serving. Cajun seasoning varies in saltiness and spice. Adjust seasoning at the end to keep the flavors balanced—not too salty or spicy.
