Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Bring a burst of bold flavor to your table with Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, a dish that marries juicy, spiced chicken with ribbons of pasta all tucked into a velvety, spicy cream sauce. Every bite is an invitation to savor smoky Cajun spices, tender strips of chicken, and colorful bell peppers—delivered in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re gathering the family on a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a casual dinner party, this pasta delivers satisfying comfort and just the right amount of Cajun kick.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is in its simplicity. Each ingredient, from the pasta base to the final sprinkle of herbs, plays a special role—building layers of creamy, savory, and subtly spicy flavors throughout the dish.

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Slicing them into strips means quicker cooking and lots of flavor in every forkful.
• Cajun seasoning: The key to that Southern flavor kick—use more or less depending on your spice preference.
• Olive oil: Perfect for getting the chicken golden and juicy every time.
• Fettuccine or penne pasta: Either shape soaks up the sauce beautifully; cook until just al dente.
• Butter: Adds silkiness and extra depth to the sautéed veggies and sauce.
• Red and yellow bell peppers: Not only do they look gorgeous, but they add a touch of sweetness and crunch.
• Garlic: The aromatic backbone—freshly minced for the best flavor.
• Heavy cream: The magic ingredient for that luscious, rich sauce that clings to every noodle.
• Parmesan cheese: Brings umami and saltiness, melting into the sauce for max creaminess.
• Black pepper: Enhances the aromatic spices without overpowering them.
• Smoked paprika: Adds an extra hit of smokiness and warmth.
• Chopped parsley (optional): Freshens up the final dish and adds a vibrant pop of green.

How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your fettuccine or penne according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente—you want the pasta to have just a little bite so it holds up well in the creamy sauce. Drain and set aside, reserving a splash of the pasta water (just in case you want to loosen the sauce later).

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, toss your sliced chicken breasts with the Cajun seasoning in a bowl, making sure every piece gets a spicy coating. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then slide in the chicken. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until beautifully browned and fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it handy—you’ll be reuniting it with the pasta soon!

Step 3: Sauté the Peppers and Garlic

In the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean; those browned bits are flavor gold), melt the butter. Toss in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers and sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften but still have a slight crunch. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant; you want it aromatic but not burnt.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, black pepper, smoked paprika, and an extra pinch of Cajun seasoning if you love spice. Let the sauce bubble gently for about 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until it’s smooth and beginning to thicken. The colors and aroma at this stage are irresistible!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked pasta and Cajun chicken to the skillet. Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss everything together, making sure every strand of pasta gets coated in the decadent sauce and mingles with those colorful veggies and spiced chicken. Let it all cook together for another 1–2 minutes—just enough to warm everything through and marry the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle a handful of chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta hot, dishing it up into big bowls so everyone can dig in right away.

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A finishing touch of bright, freshly chopped parsley makes the dish pop and adds a subtle freshness. You can also shave a little extra Parmesan over each serving, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want more heat and color.

Side Dishes

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta pairs perfectly with sides that balance its richness. Buttery garlic bread is amazing for scooping up any leftover sauce, while a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing counterpoint. Roasted or grilled vegetables work beautifully as well.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in a large platter, garnished generously with parsley and sliced peppers for a colorful, family-style centerpiece. For a fun twist, portion the pasta into individual bowls and top each with a spiral of chicken strips and a sprinkle of extra Cajun seasoning for dramatic flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the pasta completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a fantastic meal prep option. The sauce will thicken as it chills, but revives beautifully with a quick reheat.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze leftovers, portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to two months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture, as the creamy sauce may separate if heated too quickly.

Reheating

For reheating, pop leftovers in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring gently. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a splash of milk or cream to smooth things out. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave at 50 percent power in bursts, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Is Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta very spicy?

Not necessarily—it’s as spicy as you want it to be! The Cajun seasoning brings some gentle warmth, but you can adjust the amount to match your taste buds. For extra heat, a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce works wonders.

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely. Fettuccine or penne are classic choices because they hold onto the creamy sauce so well, but you can definitely use spaghetti, rigatoni, or even a gluten-free variety if needed.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, half-and-half makes a good substitute, though the sauce will be a bit less rich. Dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or a plain, unsweetened almond milk creamer can also work, though you might want to adjust seasonings to taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything as directed, toss together, then cool and store. It reheats nicely—just remember to add a splash of cream or milk when warming it up to loosen the sauce back to its velvety self.

What proteins can I use instead of chicken?

Shrimp is an incredible swap and brings a slightly sweet, seafood spin to the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. Sausage or even tofu are also tasty alternatives, depending on your mood or dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something bold, creamy, and downright comforting, Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is guaranteed to become a new staple in your rotation. It’s easy, fun to make, and always a hit—so why not treat yourself (and your favorite people) to this colorful, flavor-packed dinner? Give it a try and watch dinner disappear!

Print