Cajun Chicken Pasta is deliciously creamy, spicy, and soul-satisfying combines juicy, seasoned chicken with tender pasta, all smothered in a luscious cajun cream sauce for a quick weeknight dinner.
What Is Cajun Chicken Pasta?
Cajun Chicken Pasta is a dish inspired by Cajun cuisine, known for its bold, zesty flavors. It features pan-seared chicken seasoned with a mix of Cajun spices, paired with al dente pasta and enveloped in a creamy, savory sauce. The dish strikes a perfect balance of heat and comfort, making it a go-to for spice lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken Breast or Thighs: Lean protein that soaks up the Cajun spices beautifully.
- Cajun Seasoning: A blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, and black pepper. Store-bought works, but homemade adds a personal touch!
- Pasta: Fettuccine, penne, or linguine work best, but any pasta will do.
- Heavy Cream and Parmesan Cheese: These create the rich, creamy sauce.
- Bell Peppers and Onions: Add sweetness and crunch to balance the spices.
- Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Helps thin out the sauce while adding depth.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: It melts better and gives the sauce a smooth texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Undercook it slightly as it will finish cooking in the sauce.
- Control the Spice: Adjust the Cajun seasoning and cayenne to suit your heat tolerance.
- Sear the Chicken Properly: A good sear locks in juices and adds depth to the dish.
Variations to Try
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp, sausage, or tofu for a twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and load up on mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and check that your Cajun seasoning is GF-certified.
- Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a less indulgent option.
How to Serve Cajun Chicken Pasta
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and a side of garlic bread. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments. If you’re entertaining, pair it with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Storing and Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
While the creamy sauce doesn’t freeze perfectly, you can freeze the chicken and pasta separately for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I make Cajun Chicken Pasta in advance?
Yes! Prepare the chicken and pasta separately, then combine them with the sauce just before serving.
2. How do I make homemade Cajun seasoning?
Mix 2 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Adjust proportions to taste.
3. Can I use milk instead of cream?
For a lighter option, you can substitute milk, but mix in a little cornstarch to help thicken the sauce.
4. What pasta works best for this recipe?
Fettuccine, penne, or linguine are great choices as they hold the creamy sauce well.
5. How spicy is Cajun Chicken Pasta?
The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper. You can reduce the heat by using less cayenne or opting for a milder seasoning.
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Cajun Chicken Pasta is deliciously creamy, spicy, and soul-satisfying combines juicy, seasoned chicken with tender pasta, all smothered in a luscious cajun cream sauce for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 8 oz penne, cooked and drained
- Chicken: 1 ½ lbs chicken breast, cut into 1" pieces
- Cajun Spice Mix: 4 tsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
- Veggies: ½ yellow onion and 2 bell peppers (any color)
- Sauce: 1 ½ cups heavy cream, ⅓ cup fresh Parmesan cheese
- Seasoning: Smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper
- Butter: 3 tbsp salted butter
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil penne pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Season the Chicken: Toss chicken pieces with 3 tsp Cajun seasoning, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper in a ziploc bag until evenly coated.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Veggies: Add the remaining butter to the skillet. Sauté the diced onion and sliced bell peppers until slightly softened (3–5 minutes).
- Make the Sauce: Stir in heavy cream, smoked paprika, basil, garlic powder, the remaining Cajun seasoning, and salt/pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Combine: Return the chicken to the pan, stir in Parmesan cheese, and mix in the cooked pasta until everything is coated.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy warm!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From the smoky, spicy aroma filling your kitchen to the creamy, dreamy bites of pasta, this dish is pure comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining friends, it’s a recipe that never fails to impress.
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