Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine or linguine; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound chicken breast, sliced; 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Speedy Favorites

I can't wait to share this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe with you! The combination of the spicy Cajun seasoning and the creamy sauce creates a perfect harmony that tantalizes the taste buds. Each bite is a flavor explosion, and with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this pasta has quickly become a favorite in our home, and I'm sure it will be in yours too!

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:29:35.930Z

When I first discovered this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. I used a homemade blend of Cajun spices to add a kick, which really elevated the dish. The key trick here is to ensure your sauce thickens perfectly without becoming too runny, and that’s achieved by simmering it just right before folding in the pasta.

Another secret I learned while perfecting this recipe is to let the pasta mingle with the sauce for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of spice and creaminess.
Quick and easy to make for any night of the week.
One-pot meal means less cleanup and more time to enjoy!

Perfecting the Pasta

The type of pasta you choose can subtly affect the overall experience of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. Fettuccine or linguine is ideal because their flat surfaces hold onto the sauce better than spaghetti. When cooking the pasta, remember to boil the water with a generous pinch of salt; this is your only chance to infuse flavor into the noodles. Cooking to al dente is crucial, as the pasta will continue to cook once combined with the sauce, preventing a mushy texture.

For best results, reserve a cup of pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can be added to the sauce if it becomes too thick, creating a silkier finish and helping the sauce cling to the pasta. You can also use whole grain or gluten-free pasta as alternatives, but be sure to adjust cooking times according to the package instructions.

Sauce Secrets for Creaminess

The creamy sauce is what elevates this dish, providing richness that balances the bold Cajun seasoning. Using heavy cream is essential, as it prevents the sauce from separating during cooking and achieves the desired thickness. To ensure a smooth sauce, combine the cream and broth over medium heat, stirring continuously until you notice it begins to simmer. Watch for small bubbles forming around the edges, as that’s an indication it’s time to add the Parmesan cheese.

Parmesan not only adds a savory depth but also helps thicken the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, although this may result in a thinner sauce. For a non-dairy option, try using cashew cream or coconut milk, but be sure to adjust the seasoning since these can alter the flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather everything you need for this delicious recipe:

For the Pasta

12 oz fettuccine or linguine
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound chicken breast, sliced
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Fresh parsley for garnish

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy pasta dish:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the onions, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 4 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and additional Cajun seasoning, letting it thicken slightly.

Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing everything to coat evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This recipe is also great with shrimp or vegetables if you're looking to switch things up!

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or a bit more cream to prevent the sauce from thickening too much in the microwave or skillet, ensuring it remains creamy and delicious.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta, but be aware that the texture of the chicken may change upon thawing. If you decide to freeze, it’s best to do so before combining the chicken with the sauce. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding liquid as necessary to achieve the right consistency.

Variations and Additions

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is highly adaptable! For an extra kick, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the sauce for additional depth. You can also toss in a few cups of spinach or kale while the sauce simmers, allowing the greens to wilt and enhance the dish's nutritional value and color.

If you’re not a fan of chicken, shrimp or even sautéed vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms make fantastic substitutes. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly; shrimp cooks quickly, in about 3-4 minutes, while vegetables may require a bit more time to get tender and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, but the sauce may be less rich.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time, but I recommend cooking the pasta fresh for the best texture.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for about 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the pasta and chicken together, but the texture might change when reheating.