Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish that combines bold Cajun flavors with the indulgent richness of a velvety cream sauce. Perfectly seared chicken breast, seasoned with a zesty Cajun blend, is sliced and served atop a bed of tender penne pasta soaked in a luxuriously creamy, cheesy sauce. Each bite delivers a harmonious balance of heat and creaminess, making it a standout for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and impact. The spices are smoky and vibrant without being overpowering, and the creamy sauce mellows everything to perfection. It’s one of those meals that looks fancy, tastes gourmet, but is incredibly easy to make at home. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or looking for impressive but effortless food ideas, this pasta promises satisfaction with every forkful.

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Ingredients for this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 oz penne pasta
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry and rubbing them generously with Cajun seasoning on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5–6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and beautifully seared. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.

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Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water to use later if needed for thinning the sauce.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stir well, and bring it to a gentle simmer. Slowly add the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and more Cajun seasoning or paprika if you’d like a deeper color and stronger kick.

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Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until every piece is coated in the creamy goodness. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Place the sliced chicken on top or gently fold it into the pasta. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and red pepper flakes for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Storage Instructions

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta stores beautifully, making it a great choice for meal prep or next-day leftovers.

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so you can stir in a splash of milk or cream when reheating to bring back the creamy texture.
• Freezing: While pasta dishes with cream sauces don’t always freeze perfectly, you can freeze this if needed. Allow it to cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
• Reheating Tips: Reheat over low heat in a skillet or in the microwave, adding a little milk or broth to revive the sauce without drying it out.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 610
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Sugar: 2g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg
  Note: These values are estimates and may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of penne pasta?

Any short pasta like rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli works great. Even spaghetti can be used if that’s what you have on hand.

Can I make it less spicy?

Absolutely! Reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. You can also skip the red pepper flakes entirely.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast.

Is it gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your Cajun seasoning and Parmesan are gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes are excellent add-ins that pair well with the Cajun flavors.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Add an extra splash of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese to enrich the sauce even more.

What protein alternatives can I use?

Shrimp, sausage, or even tofu make great substitutions for chicken in this recipe.

Can I prepare it in advance?

Yes! Cook and store the pasta and chicken separately, then combine and reheat just before serving for the best texture.

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