Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that combines bold flavors, creamy textures, and a touch of spice, you’ll absolutely love this Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s a delightful fusion of tender chicken coated in Cajun seasoning, tossed with al dente pasta, and enveloped in a luscious, cheesy cream sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual get-together, this recipe promises comfort and a burst of Southern-inspired flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and savory elements that make this dish unforgettable.
- Penne pasta (250g/8 oz): Choose your favorite pasta shape; penne holds the sauce wonderfully, making each bite flavorful.
- Chicken breasts (2, cut into bite-sized pieces): Provides juicy, tender protein soaked in Cajun spices for that signature kick.
- Cajun seasoning (1 tbsp): Packs the punch of smoky, spicy goodness; adjust to your preferred heat level.
- Butter (1 tbsp): Adds richness and helps sauté veggies to perfection.
- Cooking oil (1 tbsp): Essential for browning the chicken without drying it out.
- Salt & black pepper: Basic but vital seasonings that enhance all the flavors harmoniously.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Brings sweetness and depth as it cooks down.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Delivers that irresistible aromatic hint that pairs beautifully with Cajun spices.
- Red bell pepper (1, sliced): Adds vibrant color and a gentle sweetness to balance the heat.
- White wine or chicken broth (½ cup): Creates a rich base for the sauce and helps deglaze the pan.
- Double cream/heavy cream (1 cup): Makes the pasta incredibly creamy and indulgent.
- Grated Parmesan (½ cup): Introduces a salty, nutty flavor that enriches the sauce.
- Fresh parsley: A bright, fresh garnish to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your penne pasta until it’s just al dente – tender but still firm to the bite. This ensures your final dish has a nice texture and that the pasta can hold up well when tossed in the creamy sauce. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining; it’s a golden ingredient for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later on.
Step 2: Cook the Cajun Chicken
Season your bite-sized chicken pieces generously with Cajun seasoning, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Heat the cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken pieces. Let them cook undisturbed for 5 to 6 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden crust and are cooked through. This step is where that signature smoky, spicy flavor really starts to build, so patience here pays off. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies and Make the Sauce
Using the same skillet (which now holds all those wonderful browned bits), melt the butter and add diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the pepper softens slightly, releasing a sweet aroma. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Let this simmer for about 2 minutes, then stir in your double cream and Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to thicken over 2 to 3 minutes until it reaches a silky, luscious texture that clings to your pasta beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the sauce, and toss in your drained pasta as well. Use tongs or a large spoon to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring every piece of pasta is generously coated with that creamy, spicy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add your reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it up and achieve the perfect consistency that’s both rich and pourable.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
To finish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy Cajun flavors. For those who crave an extra kick, a dash of cayenne pepper or an additional sprinkle of Cajun seasoning can be added right before serving. Serve this dish hot and watch everyone dive in joyfully!
How to Serve Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice for garnishing this dish, brightening up the plate and balancing the richness with a touch of herbaceous freshness. You can also sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan if you want to dial up the cheesy factor. For a little heat pop, consider sliced green onions or even a few chili flakes for visual appeal and spice.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta is a fabulous main dish on its own, but pairing it with a simple side can elevate the meal. Think crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread to sop up that luscious sauce, or some steamed green beans or roasted asparagus to add a fresh, crunchy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta in shallow bowls with a drizzle of extra cream or a light sprinkle of Cajun seasoning on top, making the presentation as appetizing as the taste. For a fun twist, serve in hollowed-out mini bell peppers or create individual servings in small casserole dishes and top with a bit of melted cheese, broiling briefly for a bubbly, golden crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (unlikely, but possible), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, but make sure to consume within 2 to 3 days to enjoy the best taste and texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, though the texture of the creamy sauce might change slightly. Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating. Add a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce consistency. Microwaving works too; just heat in short bursts and stir between intervals.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the sauce, feel free to use fusilli, rigatoni, or even fettuccine. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.
How spicy is this Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe?
The spice level depends on your amount of Cajun seasoning and whether you add any extra cayenne pepper. It’s generally medium-spicy with warm, smoky notes, but you can easily tone it down or amp it up to suit your taste buds.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the double cream for a coconut cream or cashew cream alternative, and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. Keep in mind the taste and texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
What if I don’t have white wine?
No worries! Chicken broth is a perfect non-alcoholic substitute that still adds depth to the sauce without overpowering its creamy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely. This Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe reheats well, making it a fantastic option for prepping lunches or dinners ahead of a busy week.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a wonderful mix of creamy indulgence and spicy excitement to your dinner table. The best part is how accessible it is—simple ingredients come together for something truly special. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a new staple in your kitchen!
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Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish combining tender Cajun-spiced chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce tossed with al dente penne pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that delivers bold flavors and satisfying creaminess.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 250g (8 oz) penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into small bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to spice preference)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp cooking oil
Vegetables & Sauce
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced (or a combination of green and yellow)
- ½ cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup double cream (heavy cream)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Cook the Cajun Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Veggies & Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and scrape the browned bits from the pan with a wooden spoon. Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta for garnish. Serve hot immediately. For those who like extra heat, sprinkle additional cayenne pepper or Cajun seasoning to taste.
Notes
- You can substitute white wine with chicken broth if preferred or to avoid alcohol.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste depending on your spice tolerance.
- Reserve pasta water is important for adjusting sauce consistency and helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.
- For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of double cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting quality.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
