If you are searching for a dish that brings warmth, bold flavors, and creamy indulgence together in one satisfying plate, this Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. With tender Cajun-spiced chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a luscious Parmesan-infused cream sauce, every bite feels like a little celebration. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy yet is effortlessly simple, making it your next go-to for weeknight dinners or weekend treats that impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are thoughtfully chosen to balance boldness, creaminess, and texture, turning a few pantry staples into a dish bursting with flavor and color. Each element plays its part, from the spicy Cajun seasoning to the richness of the Parmesan cheese.
- Chicken breasts: Sliced for quick, even cooking and perfect absorption of the Cajun seasoning.
- Penne pasta: A great sturdy shape that holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken, adding a subtle fruitiness and ensuring a lovely sear.
- Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend that delivers that signature smoky, spicy kick to the dish.
- Heavy cream: Creates the rich, velvety base of the sauce, making every forkful irresistible.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and a hint of savory balance to the creamy sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a sharp, nutty complexity and silky texture.
- Salt and pepper: Essential to enhance and round out all the vibrant flavors.
How to Make Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—tender but still with a bit of a bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Cooking the pasta perfectly sets the stage for the creamy sauce to cling just right in the later steps.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts evenly with the Cajun seasoning, then cook them in the hot oil for about 5 to 7 minutes until each slice is golden and cooked through. This step builds the bold and spicy foundation that makes the dish unforgettable. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set it aside, so you can use the same skillet for the sauce to capture all those flavorful pan bits.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
With the skillet still warm, pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits left from the chicken because that’s where the magic resides. Let this mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop a rich, luscious texture that will coat your pasta perfectly.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Now it’s time to bring all the components together. Add the cooked penne and chicken back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything thoroughly so each piece of pasta and chicken gets luxuriously enveloped in that Cajun-spiced cream. This melding step ensures every bite delivers a perfect harmony of spice, creaminess, and heartiness.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finish by tasting your creation and adjusting with salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed. This simple seasoning boost wakes up the flavors and rounds them out beautifully. Serve the Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe immediately for the best texture and warmth.
How to Serve Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions can bring a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbal brightness that balances the rich creaminess wonderfully. If you like a little extra kick, a dusting of smoked paprika or more Cajun seasoning on top can elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
This creamy and spicy pasta pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement without competing. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint, while garlic bread or warm crusty bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in individual mini cast iron skillets or shallow bowls garnished with extra Parmesan cheese curls and a lemon wedge for a subtle zesty contrast. Layering roasted vegetables on the side or folded into the pasta can also add vibrant color and texture variety.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe keep nicely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce might thicken upon cooling, so be prepared to loosen it up a bit when reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze this pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. It’s best to slightly undercook the pasta before freezing to prevent it from becoming mushy after reheating. Defrost overnight in the fridge before warming.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce feels too thick. This will help restore its creamy texture and fresh taste without drying out the chicken or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta besides penne?
Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully for this recipe because it holds sauce well, you can swap in fusilli, rigatoni, or even fettuccine depending on what you have on hand or prefer.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The Cajun seasoning adds a noticeable but balanced heat that complements the creamy sauce. If you prefer milder flavors, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or opt for a mild Cajun blend.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make the dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy creamer, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast. The flavor will vary slightly but will still be delicious.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can easily make your own by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. This DIY blend gives you control over the heat level and flavor.
How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Slice the chicken breast thinly and avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on it while pan-searing. Cooking time of 5 to 7 minutes is usually perfect to lock in moisture and keep the chicken juicy.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe has quickly become one of those dishes I reach for when I want something comforting yet exciting. It’s straightforward to prepare but delivers on every front — from the vibrant Cajun spice to the silky sauce that clings to every bite. I truly hope you give it a try and discover how effortlessly it can brighten up your mealtime and bring joy to your table.
Print
Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender chicken breasts seasoned with Cajun spices are cooked to golden perfection and tossed with al dente penne pasta in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, this comforting meal combines bold spices with a luscious creamy sauce to satisfy your cravings with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts evenly with the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken in the skillet for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until both sides are golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir the mixture well to combine all ingredients. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes to thicken slightly and develop flavor.
- Combine pasta and chicken: Add the cooked chicken slices and drained penne pasta back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the sauce.
- Season and serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the creamy Cajun chicken pasta immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni if preferred.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Add vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach to increase the nutritional value and add color.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your spice tolerance—start with less if you prefer milder flavors.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
