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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Dinner

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This creamy Cajun chicken pasta features tender seasoned chicken combined with a rich, spicy cream sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, delivering indulgent smoky flavor with a mild kick.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course dinner, pasta
Cuisine cajun
Servings 4 people
Calories 650 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
  • 1 large pot for boiling pasta

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 oz penne fettuccine, or spaghetti pasta
  • Salt for pasta water
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley chopped (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning on both sides.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through; remove and let rest.
  • While chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, reserving 1 cup pasta water before draining.
  • Slice the rested chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
  • In the skillet used for chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika to the skillet. Stir and cook spices for 1 minute.
  • Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 4-5 minutes until sauce slightly thickens.
  • Stir in grated Parmesan until fully melted. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning as desired.
  • Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Thin sauce with reserved pasta water if needed.
  • Add sliced chicken to the skillet and mix well to combine.
  • Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for juicier meat and richer flavor.
  • Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Substitute shrimp for a seafood variation.
  • Store leftovers covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Add lemon juice before serving for brightness.