Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich Cajun cream sauce. Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Chicken thighs can be used as an alternative.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Healthy fat for searing chicken.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Store-bought or homemade.
- to taste salt and pepper Essential seasonings for flavor.
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti Any pasta works, but penne and fettuccine are great for creamy sauces.
- to taste salt For the pasta water.
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Foundation of the creamy sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Adds aromatic depth.
- 1 cup heavy cream Makes the sauce velvety.
- ½ cup chicken broth To thin out the sauce.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a salty umami depth.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning To amplify the sauce's flavors.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Enhances the flavor.
Optional Ingredients
- fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
- red pepper flakes For added heat.
- fresh lemon juice Brightens the dish.
- sautéed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms) For added nutrition.
- shrimp For a seafood twist.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let them rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Add remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing to thicken for about 3-5 minutes, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
- Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, use reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
Customize your spice level by adjusting Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes. Leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days.