Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This creamy Cajun chicken pasta has everything I want in a weeknight dinner: bold spice, a silky sauce, and tender chicken clinging to every noodle.

It looks fancy but comes together in about 30 minutes in one pan.

Prep: 10 min  |  Cook: 20 min  |  Total: 30 min  |  Serves: 4

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold, smoky Cajun flavor with a creamy sauce to balance the heat.
• Everything comes together in about 30 minutes.
• Easy to make milder or spicier to taste.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Creamy, spicy Cajun chicken pasta with a smoky kick. A bold, comforting dinner ready in 30 minutes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 620

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Method

 

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
2. Toss the sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes until golden. Transfer to a plate.
4. Add the bell pepper and garlic and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, remaining Cajun seasoning, and parmesan. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Return the chicken and add the pasta, tossing to coat. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Tips for the Best Results

• Taste and adjust the Cajun seasoning; brands vary in heat and salt.
• Save a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest melt.

Variations

• Add shrimp or smoked sausage.
• Stir in a handful of spinach at the end.
• Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

Storage

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth.