Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Dinner

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings 4 servings

Calories 650

This creamy Cajun chicken pasta combines bold spices, rich sauce, and tender chicken for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick, flavorful dinner.

2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Quick to cook and absorb Cajun seasoning)
1 tablespoon olive oil (For cooking the chicken)
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (Key flavor enhancer)
Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper (Seasoning to taste)
12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti (Type of pasta)
Salt for pasta water Salt (Enhances pasta flavor)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (Base of the creamy sauce)
4 cloves garlic, minced (Adds aromatic depth)
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (Adds flavor to the sauce)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (Adds smoky depth)
1 cup heavy cream (Creates velvety sauce)
½ cup chicken broth (Adds savory base)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (Adds umami flavor)
Fresh parsley optional Fresh parsley, chopped (For garnish)
Red pepper flakes to taste Red pepper flakes (For heat)
Fresh lemon juice to taste Fresh lemon juice (Brightens the dish)
Sautéed vegetables optional Sautéed vegetables (Optional for extra flavor)
Shrimp optional Shrimp (Substitute chicken for seafood)

Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear in olive oil until cooked through.
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Simmer until slightly thickened.
Add cooked pasta, Parmesan, and cooked chicken to the sauce. Toss to combine. Finish with lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes.

For extra flavor, add sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms. Substitute shrimp for chicken for a seafood variation.

Calories: 650kcal

Cost: $15

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Cajun, chicken, Pasta