Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta blends smoky spice with velvety sauce in a one-pan wonder that’s bold, comforting, and irresistibly satisfying. A soulful fusion of Southern flavor and pasta night favorite.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot for Pasta
- Tongs or Spatula
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Grater (for cheese)
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti your choice of pasta
- 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
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let rest, then slice.
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Add cream and broth, then simmer to thicken slightly.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add pasta and toss to coat in sauce, thinning with reserved water if needed.
- Stir in sliced chicken, mix well. Remove from heat and garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Customize with shrimp, veggies, or lemon. For extra heat, add red pepper flakes. Use whole wheat pasta or light cream for a lighter version.
Nutrition
Calories: 580kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 38gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 145mgSodium: 520mgPotassium: 520mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 950IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 2.3mg
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