Cajun Chicken Pasta

If you’re craving a creamy, spicy, and flavor-packed dish, Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect meal! Juicy, seasoned chicken is tossed with a rich, garlicky Alfredo-style sauce and tender pasta, making this an irresistible weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold & Spicy Flavor – Cajun seasoning brings the perfect kick.
• Creamy & Comforting – A luscious sauce coats every bite.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes for a hassle-free meal.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level to your liking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (2, sliced into strips) – Juicy and flavorful when seared.
• Cajun Seasoning (1 tbsp) – A spicy, smoky blend of bold flavors.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – For searing the chicken.
• Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• Penne or Fettuccine Pasta (12 oz) – Perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
• Butter (2 tbsp) – Adds richness to the sauce.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – A must-have for flavor.
• Heavy Cream (1½ cups) – Makes the sauce extra creamy.
• Chicken Broth (½ cup) – Adds depth without making the sauce too thick.
• Parmesan Cheese (¾ cup, grated) – Melts into the sauce for a cheesy finish.
• Diced Tomatoes (½ cup, optional) – Adds a slight acidity and color.
• Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp, optional) – For extra heat.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish) – A fresh touch to balance the spice.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Tongs for flipping chicken

How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. In a bowl, toss the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, diced tomatoes, and red pepper flakes.
5. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
2. Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, mixing it into the pasta.
3. Let everything heat together for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
2. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness!

What to Serve with Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make a great side.
• Side Salad – A fresh Caesar or garden salad balances the richness.

Tips for the Best Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Keep it juicy by cooking just until golden and no longer pink.
• Control the Spice – Adjust the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to your heat preference.
• Use Fresh Parmesan – It melts better and gives the sauce a smooth texture.
• For a Lighter Version – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.
• Freeze: Not recommended, as the sauce may separate when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?
Yes! Just swap the chicken for shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.

What other pasta can I use?
Any pasta works! Try rigatoni, linguine, or bowtie for a fun twist.

Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan.

Conclusion

This Cajun Chicken Pasta is creamy, spicy, and packed with bold flavors—the perfect comfort meal for any night of the week. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or a special occasion, it’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Try it out and let me know how it turns out!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Cajun-American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 520 | Protein: 32g | Carbohydrates: 45g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 720mg

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