Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
A bold and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich, spicy cream sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti
- Salt for the pasta water
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped optional
- Red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh lemon juice to taste
- Sautéed vegetables optional
- Shrimp optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare the chicken by seasoning both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the chicken. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside to rest.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Cooking the Sauce
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, then pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and combined.
Bringing it Together
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, season to taste, and garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
For those who enjoy a bit more heat, serve with red pepper flakes on the side. Pairing the dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread complements the richness.