This creamy Cajun chicken pasta is a fun and tasty meal that combines juicy chicken with a zesty sauce and pasta. It’s a one-pan dish that’s quick to whip up!
You’ll love how the spice in the Cajun seasoning makes it exciting. I swear, I always have seconds because it’s just that good! Who can resist creamy pasta, right? 😋
Whenever I make this, I enjoy adding some bell peppers for extra crunch. Plus, it’s a breeze to make—so I can spend more time eating than cooking!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish. If you prefer, thighs can work too, as they stay juicier. Tofu or chickpeas can substitute for a vegetarian option, providing a different flavor profile.
Cajun Seasoning: The blend of spices gives this dish its kick. If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Just keep in mind that it may alter the creaminess slightly.
Pasta: I usually use penne, but fettuccine works well too! Feel free to try gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly is essential for this dish. Follow these tips to avoid dry chicken:
- Cut your chicken into even bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Heat the skillet properly before adding the chicken. This helps in achieving a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; it can lower the temperature and prevent browning.
Cook until golden brown and the juices run clear—about 5-7 minutes works well. This way, your chicken will be juicy and flavorful!
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces penne or fettuccine pasta
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking the pasta, followed by 20 minutes to sauté the chicken and prepare the creamy sauce. It’s a quick meal that’s full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s ready, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with the Cajun seasoning until they are evenly coated. This will give your chicken a lovely flavor boost!
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until it’s browned and cooked through—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Add the minced garlic, sliced onion, and optional red bell pepper. Sauté until everything is softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Smell that delicious aroma!
5. Make the Sauce:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The sauce will start bubbling just a bit, and that’s when the magic happens!
6. Add Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Your creamy sauce is starting to look amazing!
7. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to add the chicken back into the skillet. Then, add your cooked pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in that creamy sauce. Taste it and add salt and pepper if needed!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely touch. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful and creamy Cajun chicken pasta!
There you go! A simple yet delicious creamy Cajun chicken pasta recipe to delight your taste buds!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place it in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method, sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed. Pat it dry before adding Cajun seasoning for the best results!
What if I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can make your own by mixing equal parts of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick. Adjust the spices to your taste!
How Do I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Just be careful not to let it boil to avoid curdling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creaminess. Enjoy it again in no time!
