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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: Your Ultimate Guide to a Bold, Flavor-Packed Dinner

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in 30 Minutes!
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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, spicy Cajun-inspired cream sauce. The bold Cajun spices, creamy garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together for a smoky, indulgent, and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts — sliced thinly

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

  • Salt, for pasta water

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup chicken broth

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Red pepper flakes — for extra heat

  • Fresh lemon juice — for brightness

  • Sautéed veggies — like bell peppers, onions, or spinach

  • Shrimp — for a seafood variation

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken: Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.

  2. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear for 6–7 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (165°F / 74°C internal temperature).

  3. Rest and slice: Remove from skillet, rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

  2. Add the pasta and cook 8–10 minutes or until al dente.

  3. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

  2. Add minced garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

  3. Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika; cook for 1 minute to release flavor.

  4. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; stir to combine. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

  5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or more Cajun seasoning if desired.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.

  2. Add sliced chicken and mix until evenly distributed.

  3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water for creaminess.

  4. Garnish with parsley, extra Parmesan, or red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://biteseason.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-pasta-your-ultimate-guide-to-a-bold-flavor-packed-dinner/