Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is like a warm hug on a plate, bursting with a symphony of southern-inspired spices and luxuriously creamy sauce. This dish brings together tender strips of seasoned chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and al dente pasta coated in a silky, spice-kissed cream. It’s a quick and satisfying way to turn an ordinary weeknight into a flavor-packed feast without breaking a sweat—or the bank. Whether you’re new to Cajun cooking or a seasoned spice lover, this beginner-friendly recipe makes it easy to dial up or down the heat. With just 15 minutes of prep and under half an hour of cooking time, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dinner on the table in about 40 minutes total. At around 650 calories per serving, it’s rich enough to feel indulgent yet balanced by colorful veggies and lean protein.
I first stumbled upon this recipe on a rainy Tuesday when I craved something comforting yet bold. The blend of garlic, paprika, and cayenne weaves into the creamy base, creating layers of flavor that linger long after the last bite. You can almost hear the sizzle as the chicken hits the hot skillet, releasing those irresistible Cajun aromas. If you’re hosting friends or feeding a hungry family, this dish doubles easily; you can swap in half-and-half for a lighter twist or toss in fresh spinach for extra color and nutrients. Served as lunch or dinner, it shines alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread. Grab your apron and let’s dive into this irresistible, soul-satisfying pasta!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CREAMY CAJUN CHICKEN PASTA
Every unforgettable dish starts with high-quality ingredients. In this recipe, each component plays a starring role—from the spicy Cajun seasoning to the rich Parmesan that unites it all. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Chicken breasts
Lean and versatile, these provide tender protein that soaks up all those bold Cajun flavors.
- Cajun seasoning
A signature blend of spices that brings that irresistible southern kick, balancing heat and smokiness.
- Olive oil
The perfect cooking medium to sear your chicken to a golden brown while infusing a subtle fruity note.
- Red bell pepper
Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color contrast, complementing the spice with fresh, garden-fresh flavor.
- Yellow bell pepper
Offers a milder sweetness and cheerful hue, making each bite a feast for the eyes and palate.
- Heavy cream
Creates the luxuriously smooth sauce base, binding all the bold spices and ingredients together.
- Low-sodium chicken broth
Thins the cream slightly while adding depth and savory richness, ensuring the sauce isn’t too heavy.
- Garlic powder
Intensifies the savory profile with a warm, aromatic garlic punch—no peeling or chopping required!
- Paprika
Contributes a gentle smokiness and bright color, underscoring the Cajun seasoning.
- Cayenne pepper
A little goes a long way in delivering that thrilling, tongue-tingling heat.
- Salt and black pepper
Essentials for balancing and enhancing the natural flavors in every ingredient.
- Fettuccine or penne pasta
Provides the hearty canvas for the creamy sauce to cling to—choose your favorite shape.
- Parmesan cheese
Melts into the sauce for a nutty, savory finish that ties everything together in cheesy harmony.
- Fresh parsley
Sprinkled on top for a burst of herbaceous brightness and a pop of green.
- Green onion
Adds crisp, mild oniony notes and a decorative flourish to each plate.
HOW TO MAKE CREAMY CAJUN CHICKEN PASTA
Ready to bring these ingredients to life? Follow along below for each step in creating this vibrant, creamy pasta dish that’s sure to impress. Keep your skillet hot, your pasta al dente, and your taste buds primed for a spicy, flavorful ride.
1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted, boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and transfer to a warm bowl to keep it from sticking together.
2. Slice the chicken breasts into thin, even strips. Generously season with Cajun seasoning, making sure every strip is coated for maximum flavor in every bite.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the seasoned chicken strips in a single layer. Cook for about 7–8 minutes, flipping once, until each side is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften but still hold a bit of crunch—this keeps their fresh sweetness intact.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to fully combine all the spices and liquids.
6. Reduce the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally for about 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
7. Return the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring each strand of pasta and piece of chicken is luxuriously coated in the creamy sauce.
8. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes even silkier.
9. Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute. The sauce will thicken slightly more as it cools.
10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and sliced green onion for that final pop of color and fresh, zesty flavor. Serve immediately!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CREAMY CAJUN CHICKEN PASTA
Transforming this dish from kitchen creation to dining delight is half the fun. Whether you’re dishing it up for guests or treating yourself to a cozy night in, these serving tips will elevate your experience and make everyone feel like they’re at a bistro.
- Family-style platter
Transfer the pasta to a large shallow serving dish, mound it in the center, and sprinkle extra parsley and green onion on top. Encourage guests to help themselves for a warm, communal vibe.
- Plate with flair
Twirl a portion of fettuccine on a fork, place it neatly in the center of each plate, and arrange the chicken strips and peppers around the edges. Drizzle any leftover sauce over the top for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
- Side of greens
Pair with a crisp mixed green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity and freshness are the perfect foil to the rich, creamy sauce.
- Garlic bread accompaniment
Serve with slices of toasted garlic bread or buttery baguette. The crispy, garlicky crunch is ideal for soaking up every last drop of that spicy cream sauce.
HOW TO STORE CREAMY CAJUN CHICKEN PASTA
Leftovers can be just as delightful as the first serving—if you store them properly. Taking a few extra moments to cool and pack your pasta ensures you’ll enjoy that same spicy creaminess days later.
Keeping your dish fresh is all about temperature control and moisture management. After the pasta cools slightly, transfer it to an airtight container. This prevents the sauce from developing a skin and keeps the flavors sealed in. If you plan to eat it within two days, simply refrigerate. For longer-term storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags, squeezing out excess air so the sauce doesn’t form ice crystals.
- Refrigeration
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Freezing
Portion into freezer-safe bags, label with the date, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as above.
- Separate components
If you anticipate storing, keep the pasta and sauce in separate containers. This helps maintain the pasta’s texture and prevents it from becoming soggy.
- Reviving the sauce
If the sauce thickens too much after storage, stir in a little warm chicken broth or cream while reheating to bring back its silky consistency.
CONCLUSION
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a quick, beginner-friendly dish that brings bold southern flavors and velvety richness to your dinner table. From the first spicy-sweet bite to the last creamy swirl, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. With only 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a radiant plate of pasta studded with tender chicken and vibrant peppers in under 45 minutes. Plus, at about 650 calories per serving, it’s hearty without tipping into overindulgence. Feel free to swap in half-and-half for a lighter sauce or toss in extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for more color and nutrients. The recipe’s flexibility, beginner-level difficulty, and comforting profile make it perfect for weeknight dinners, casual lunch gatherings, or even meal prep.
You can print this article and save it in your recipe binder for easy reference—just fold it into a recipe card or pin it to your fridge! You’ll also find a FAQ below to answer any questions you might have. If you give this dish a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Leave a comment with your flavor tweaks, rate the spiciness level you prefer, or share any questions you have about the process. Your feedback helps me create even more delicious, down-to-earth recipes that feel like chatting with a friend in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Description
This creamy Cajun chicken pasta features tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a decadent sauce, all tossed with pasta for a satisfying meal that brings a touch of the South to your table.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, ensuring an even coat.
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken strips and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
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Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
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Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Add the cooked pasta and the chicken back to the skillet. Stir to coat the pasta and chicken with the creamy sauce.
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Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the cheese has melted into the sauce.
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Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley and sliced green onion.
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Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish.
Note
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper to suit your preferred level of spiciness.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for more variety.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
