Name: Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta; 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a dinner that’s bursting with bold flavor, creamy goodness, and just the right touch of heat, look no further than this Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. It’s the kind of dish that combines comfort with excitement, layering tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a luscious Cajun-spiced sauce all in one irresistible bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat, this pasta is proof that a restaurant-quality meal can absolutely come together in under 30 minutes in your own kitchen!

Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s so delightful about Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is how every ingredient is chosen for maximum flavor and effortless prep. Each item in this recipe pulls its weight, adding either color, richness, texture, or that crave-worthy Cajun kick.

Fettuccine or Penne Pasta (12 oz): The perfect base for soaking up every drop of that creamy, spicy sauce—choose your favorite shape!
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (2, sliced into strips): Tender, juicy, and the ideal protein to carry those Cajun flavors.
Cajun Seasoning (2 tablespoons): The magic ingredient—packaged or homemade, it gives this pasta its signature smoky, spicy depth.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Gets the chicken searing and adds a subtle richness to the whole dish.
Butter (1 tablespoon): Sautéed with veggies for extra decadence and silky mouthfeel in the sauce.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): A must for aromatic depth and gorgeous flavor base.
Red Bell Pepper (1, sliced): Pops of color and sweetness that balance the heat.
Yellow Bell Pepper (1, sliced): Adds sunshine-bright color and a mellow, sweet crunch.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): Delivers the luscious, velvety texture that makes the sauce so dreamy.
Chicken Broth (1/2 cup): Adds savory flavor and helps thin the sauce to just the right consistency.
Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Melts into the sauce for nutty, salty umami you’ll crave.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for bringing all the flavors into balance at the end.
Chopped Parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh, herby finish that looks as good as it tastes.

How to Make Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine or penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—the pasta should be tender with just a bit of bite. Drain well and set aside, drizzling with a touch of olive oil if you want to prevent sticking. This quick step is the foundation, so don’t skimp on salt in the water for extra flavor!

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While the pasta is boiling, slice your chicken breasts into strips for even cooking. Toss them generously with Cajun seasoning, making sure each piece is well coated. This is where the smoky, spicy flavor starts to come alive.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat. Add all those boldly spiced chicken strips and let them sizzle, undisturbed, for about 4 to 5 minutes. You want them browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken to a plate and keep it handy—you’ll add it back shortly.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pan (no need to clean it out!), melt the butter. Add in the minced garlic, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until everything’s softened and fragrant. The peppers bring a beautiful sweet crunch, and the garlic’s aroma will make your kitchen smell amazing.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

Slowly pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to mix everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for another 3 to 4 minutes—this allows the flavors to meld. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce becomes silky. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as you like.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and seared chicken back into the skillet. Toss gently to coat every piece with that rich, creamy, Cajun-spiced sauce. Let it heat through for 1 to 2 minutes, and watch how all the ingredients come together in a glorious, golden tangle.

How to Serve Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top brightens up the whole dish and adds a fresh, vibrant pop of green. If you want an extra touch, try a dusting of Parmesan or a twist of freshly cracked black pepper—the finishing touches really elevate this Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta!

Side Dishes

This pasta is quite satisfying on its own, but if you’re looking to round out your meal, a crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette is always a hit. For something more indulgent, serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to mop up all that irresistible sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with your plating! You can twirl the pasta into nests on each plate for a restaurant-worthy look or serve family-style in a big bowl right at the dinner table. For a fun twist, add a wedge of lemon alongside each serving—the brightness is a delightful contrast to the Cajun spice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a perfect next-day lunch or quick dinner.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze this pasta. Transfer cooled portions to freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce and keep it creamy. Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring halfway through. Just be careful not to overcook, as the chicken and pasta can dry out if heated too long.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp or andouille sausage both work wonderfully in this Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. Just adjust the cooking time so your protein stays tender and juicy.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level really depends on your Cajun seasoning and your taste preferences. If you like things milder, use less seasoning, or pick a mild blend. If you crave heat, add a pinch of cayenne or an extra shake of Cajun spice!

What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

Both fettuccine and penne are excellent—the sauce clings nicely to both. Feel free to substitute any pasta shape you love, including gluten-free varieties, for your Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta.

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

Definitely! The flavors deepen and mellow after sitting, so Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta can be made ahead and divided into portions for grab-and-go lunches or busy weeknight dinners.

Is there a way to lighten up the recipe?

For a lighter version, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or stir in extra veggies like spinach or zucchini. The dish will still be deliciously creamy and comforting!

Final Thoughts

This Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is one of those magical meals that’s simple enough for a weeknight yet special enough to impress. I hope you give it a try and share it with people you love—there’s just something about that creamy, spicy sauce and tender chicken that brings everyone to the table with big appetites and happy smiles!

Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich and flavorful Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, a satisfying dish that combines tender chicken strips, colorful bell peppers, and a creamy Cajun-infused sauce served over perfectly cooked pasta.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta

Chicken:

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce:

1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season and cook the chicken: Coat chicken strips with Cajun seasoning. Brown and cook seasoned chicken in olive oil until done. Set aside.
Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper until softened. Add cream and chicken broth, simmer, then stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine and finish: Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Heat through, toss to coat, and garnish with parsley before serving.