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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

A bold and comforting pasta dish featuring tender Cajun-seasoned chicken tossed in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners with restaurant-style flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
  • salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • large pot for pasta
  • cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • tongs or spatula

Method
 

  1. Season chicken breasts on both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet, rest briefly, then slice into strips.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, simmering until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
  4. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed. Gently fold in sliced chicken. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving
  • Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties
  • This dish is best served immediately for optimal texture