Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Savor the rich and flavorful experience of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious Cajun cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe bursts with spices and creamy goodness that will impress your family and friends. Quick, easy, and utterly satisfying, it is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Naomi Clarke

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2025-11-13T07:31:41.262Z

This dish was inspired by the vibrant flavors of Louisiana cuisine, combining the kick of Cajun spices with the comforting creaminess of a pasta dish.

A Burst of Flavors

The Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a symphony of bold flavors and creamy textures that come together to create a remarkable culinary experience. The marriage of Cajun seasoning with the rich cream sauce elevates the dish, making it an unforgettable meal. Each bite of tender chicken and al dente fettuccine is perfectly enveloped in a sauce that bursts with spices, ensuring your taste buds are tantalized with every forkful.

Cajun cuisine is known for its vibrant spices and hearty ingredients, which is exactly what this recipe captures. The use of smoked paprika adds depth to the sauce, while garlic and onion powder contribute to a savory richness that will make you want to come back for seconds. This dish certainly brings the spirit of Southern cooking to your dining table.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it's a family dinner during the week or a special gathering with friends, Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta fits perfectly into any occasion. The quick preparation time makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, allowing you to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the company of loved ones. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create an impressive meal that everyone will rave about.

For those who enjoy hosting dinner parties, this dish serves as an excellent centerpiece. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will captivate your guests before they even take the first bite. Pair it with a light salad and a glass of wine, and you have yourself a memorable meal that showcases your culinary skills without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Customization and Variations

One of the best aspects of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is its versatility. While the recipe calls for chicken, you can easily swap it for shrimp for a delightful seafood twist. Additionally, incorporating seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or spinach not only adds flavor and texture but also boosts the nutritional content of the dish. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta as well to suit your personal preferences.

If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or substituting whole-grain pasta for a healthier option. No matter how you choose to make it, this dish remains a crowd-pleaser that can be adapted to fit a variety of dietary needs and preferences, making it a great addition to your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 8 oz fettuccine pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless 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
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure an easy cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Boil water in a large pot and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken for about 3-5 minutes.

Combine

Add the cooked fettuccine and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta!

Cooking Tips

To ensure you achieve that perfect al dente texture in your fettuccine, remember to stir the pasta during cooking and taste it just before draining. Each brand may have slightly different cooking times, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. Once drained, toss the pasta in a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking while it waits for the sauce.

When seasoning the chicken, feel free to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your taste preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with a smaller amount and gradually add more. Remember that the spices will intensify as the chicken cooks, so a little goes a long way.

Storage and Reheating

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the creamy texture, consider reheating it gently on the stovetop over low heat. This will help prevent the sauce from separating and maintain its silky smoothness.

If you find that the pasta has absorbed a lot of the sauce during storage, simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating to bring it back to its desired consistency. Reheating in the microwave is also an option, but keep in mind that the texture may not be as ideal as stovetop reheating.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance and cook just before serving for the best texture.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Savor the rich and flavorful experience of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious Cajun cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe bursts with spices and creamy goodness that will impress your family and friends. Quick, easy, and utterly satisfying, it is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Prep Time15.0
Cooking Duration20.0
Overall Time35.0

Created by: Naomi Clarke

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4.0

What You'll Need

For the Pasta

  1. 8 oz fettuccine pasta
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
  4. 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  5. Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

  1. 1 cup heavy cream
  2. 1 cup chicken broth
  3. 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  4. 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  5. 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  6. 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  7. Fresh parsley for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

Boil water in a large pot and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 02

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 03

In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken for about 3-5 minutes.

Step 04

Add the cooked fettuccine and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 05

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 650
  • Protein: 45g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fat: 28g