Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Plate Essentials

I absolutely love making Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for a cozy night in. The combination of succulent chicken, zesty Cajun spices, and creamy sauce creates an unforgettable culinary experience. It's quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. I always keep the ingredients on hand because it’s a favorite in our home and never fails to impress. You can adjust the spice level to your liking, ensuring everyone enjoys it just the way they want.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:29:36.342Z

When I first tried making Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, I was blown away by how simple yet delicious it is. I used a mix of heavy cream and chicken broth to achieve that perfect creamy consistency without being overly rich. The Cajun seasoning gave it just the right amount of kick, making it a dish that always gets rave reviews.

One tip I discovered is to sear the chicken on high heat for a few minutes before adding the sauce. It locks in flavors and creates that beautiful golden crust that elevates the dish. Trust me, this little step makes a significant difference to your pasta. I never skip it now!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that clings perfectly to pasta
A kick of spice from Cajun seasoning that awakens the palate
Quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week

The Perfect Pasta

Cooking fettuccine to the ideal al dente texture is key to achieving the desired bite in this creamy dish. Typically, this means simmering the pasta for about 8-10 minutes in generously salted water—just enough time to ensure it retains its structure and doesn’t become mushy. Always reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining; it can be a great addition later to adjust the sauce consistency.

Don’t forget to give your pasta a quick toss with a drizzle of olive oil after draining. This not only helps prevent sticking, but also enhances the flavors when it’s combined with the creamy sauce. If you prefer a different type of pasta, consider substituting penne or rigatoni, but keep cooking times in mind as they may vary.

Mastering the Chicken

For perfectly cooked chicken, aim for a golden-brown exterior while ensuring it's juicy inside. If you're short on time, consider slicing the chicken breasts into thinner cutlets before seasoning them with Cajun spices. This will reduce cooking time to about 4-5 minutes per side. Remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps retain moisture when you slice it.

When selecting Cajun seasoning, opt for a brand with a well-balanced flavor profile that includes spices like paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder. If you'd like to make it milder or spicier, adjust the amount used according to your taste. You can also use smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.

Creamy Sauce Secrets

Achieving a rich, creamy sauce relies on using high-quality heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The heavy cream adds a wonderful richness and velvety texture, while the cheese contributes a nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce as it melts. Be sure to add the cheese gradually, stirring gently to prevent clumping until the sauce is smooth and glossy.

If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half-and-half for some of the heavy cream, but keep in mind it may alter the creaminess. Additionally, cooking the sauce at too high of a heat can lead to separation; maintaining a gentle simmer is best to allow the flavors to meld without breaking the sauce.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to whip up your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and slice.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and gently stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss to combine and heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful meal!

Pro Tips

For a little extra heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also substitute shrimp or vegetables for the chicken if desired.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, because the pasta absorbs the sauce over time, it might become a bit dry. To revive it, reheat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or water, adding more grated Parmesan if needed to restore creaminess.

For freezing, I recommend storing the pasta sauce and chicken separately from the pasta to preserve texture. You can freeze the sauce in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months; thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove over low heat.

Creative Variations

You can easily customize this recipe by incorporating vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas for added nutrition and flavor. Sauté these veggies with the chicken to ensure they are tender yet vibrant, adding a nice contrast to the creamy sauce. This not only elevates the dish but also adds a colorful presentation.

For a twist, try swapping the chicken for shrimp or andouille sausage, both of which pair beautifully with the Cajun spices. If you’re using shrimp, they typically cook in just 2-3 minutes per side, making this a quick alternative when you're short on time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you love will work well in this recipe.

→ Is the sauce gluten-free?

You can make the dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring your Cajun seasoning does not contain gluten.

→ Can I make this sauce dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and nutritional yeast for the Parmesan.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to thin it out if necessary.