If you’re looking for a rich, flavorful, and slightly spicy pasta dish, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a must-try! Tender, juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken is tossed with a velvety, garlic-infused cream sauce and served over perfectly cooked pasta.
This dish is quick and easy, making it perfect for weeknight dinners while still tasting like something you’d order at a restaurant. Plus, it’s completely customizable—add shrimp, sausage, or extra veggies for your own delicious twist.
Let’s make this bold, creamy, and ultra-satisfying Cajun pasta!
Why You’ll Love This Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Creamy & Spicy – The perfect balance of heat and richness.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights!
- Loaded with Flavor – Cajun seasoning gives it that smoky, zesty kick.
- One-Pan Option – Cook everything in a single pan for easy cleanup.
- Customizable – Add shrimp, veggies, or a protein of your choice!
What Does Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Taste Like?
This pasta is rich, smoky, and slightly spicy with a smooth, creamy sauce that coats every bite. The juicy, seared Cajun chicken adds a bold, slightly charred flavor, while the garlic, Parmesan, and heavy cream create a luxurious, velvety texture.
If you love Alfredo sauce but want more spice and flavor, this dish is for you!
Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
For the Cajun Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- ½ cup bell peppers, sliced (optional)
- Fresh parsley & extra Parmesan for garnish
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Tongs
- Cutting board & knife
Ingredient Substitutions & Additions
- Protein Swap – Use shrimp, sausage, or tofu instead of chicken.
- Lighter Version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and less butter.
- Extra Heat – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Veggies – Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Dairy-Free Option – Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Season & Cook the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until fully coated.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic & Veggies
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. If using, add the bell peppers and cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Toss Everything Together
Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
6. Serve & Garnish
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
💡 Serving Tip: Pair with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted veggies for a complete meal!
Expert Tips for the Best Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Searing it quickly keeps it juicy and flavorful.
- Use Fresh Parmesan – It melts better and gives a richer flavor.
- Simmer the Sauce Gently – This keeps it creamy without curdling.
- Reserve Some Pasta Water – If the sauce is too thick, add ¼ cup reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
What to Serve with Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce!
- Caesar Salad – A fresh, crunchy side to balance the richness.
- Grilled Asparagus or Roasted Broccoli – Adds a healthy touch.
- Cornbread – A Southern twist that pairs beautifully with Cajun flavors.
How to Store & Reheat Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes! Reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. You can also add extra cream or cheese to balance the heat.
2. What’s the best type of pasta for this dish?
Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work best as they hold the sauce well.
3. Can I make this Cajun pasta ahead of time?
Yes! Cook everything except the pasta, then reheat the sauce and toss with fresh pasta before serving.
4. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich. Try half-and-half or a mix of milk and a little butter for a creamy texture.
5. What’s the best way to get extra creamy sauce?
Use freshly grated Parmesan and let the sauce simmer gently—don’t let it boil!
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a bold, comforting, and ultra-satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights or special occasions. It’s rich, creamy, and just spicy enough to keep things exciting.
Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turned out! Share your creations on Pinterest and leave a review below—I’d love to hear from you!
More Delicious Recipes to Try
- Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake – A Moist & Flavorful Delight – Soft, buttery, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor!
- Steak & Shrimp Stir-Fried Noodles – A bold, protein-packed dish with savory stir-fry flavors.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp & Rice – A quick, flavorful shrimp dish with garlicky, buttery rice.
Happy cooking! 🍝🔥