Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold, smoky flavors paired with creamy decadence, this Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender chunks of perfectly seasoned chicken nestled in a velvety sauce flecked with vibrant bell peppers and aromatic spices, all tossed with al dente penne pasta. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between spicy and comforting, making it a go-to weeknight favorite or a crowd-pleaser for weekend gatherings. Once you try this Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe, it’s likely to become a cherished classic in your kitchen too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe plays a crucial role, bringing a unique texture, flavor, or color that makes the final dish truly sensational. From the smoky blend of spices to the creamy cheeses, everything is thoughtfully selected and easy to find.
- 12 oz penne pasta: Cooked al dente to provide the perfect bite and a sturdy base for the creamy sauce.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables for a deep, caramelized flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced: Offers sweetness and depth to the savory base of the dish.
- ½ red bell pepper, seeded and diced: Adds a pop of color and sweet crunch to balance the spices.
- ½ yellow bell pepper, seeded and diced: Brings brightness and a subtle sweetness alongside the red pepper.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: For a fragrant, mouthwatering aroma and savory backbone.
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning: The star spice mixture that brings signature heat and smoky complexity.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky nuance while enhancing the dish’s color.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a mild heat and pungency to complement the Cajun seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and bringing out all other flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds an extra kick to spice things up subtly.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender protein that soaks up all the vibrant flavors.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, creamy sauce that coats every pasta strand.
- ¼ cup chicken broth: Helps loosen the sauce and adds savory depth.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Gives the sauce extra creaminess and a subtle tang.
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Provides a nutty, salty finish to the sauce.
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped: A fresh, mild bite to brighten the dish just before serving.
How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it still offers a slight bite when you chew it. Draining and rinsing the pasta with cold water afterward prevents it from sticking together and helps it hold up nicely in the creamy sauce later. Setting it aside now frees you up to focus on building the rich flavors in the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Chicken
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat to create a luscious base. Toss in the diced onions and cook them until they turn translucent and sweet-smelling. Then add the colorful red and yellow bell peppers along with minced garlic, letting everything soften and mingle. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper to awaken the skillet with their bold aromas. Finally, add your bite-sized chicken pieces and cook them until they’re no longer pink in the center and beautifully coated with seasoning.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet, letting the mixture come together beautifully. Add the softened cream cheese and sprinkle in the shredded Parmesan. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts fully and the sauce thickens into a smooth, velvety coating. This sauce is the heart of the Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe—it wraps the chicken and veggies in irresistible creaminess with a hint of heat.
Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the cooked penne to the skillet and toss everything together until each piece of pasta is generously coated in the creamy, spicy sauce. Let it cook together for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to marry perfectly and the pasta to warm through. Finally, sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color and mild crunch. Your Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is now ready to delight!
How to Serve Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you can add your personal touch to this dish. Freshly chopped green onions are a classic choice, offering a gentle contrast to the rich sauce. You could also sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan or add a few thin slices of red chili for those who want to dial up the heat. A light drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors even more, ensuring every bite feels festive and fresh.
Side Dishes
This Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is substantial on its own, but pairing it with light sides creates a well-rounded meal. A crisp green salad with a tart vinaigrette can cut through the creaminess beautifully. Alternatively, roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add a gratifying crunch and nutrients. For a cozy twist, serve alongside warm garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls to mop up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this pasta in individual shallow bowls highlights its comforting nature while allowing for elegant presentation. For a dinner party, try plating the chicken and sauce first, then nestle the pasta on top before a final sprinkle of herbs and cheese. Another fun idea is to bake it briefly in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese and breadcrumbs for a golden, crunchy finish. Whatever your style, this Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe makes a visually stunning and soul-satisfying centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Cajun Chicken Pasta should be cooled to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Because the creamy sauce may thicken as it chills, adding a splash of milk or broth when reheating helps restore its silky texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe, but be mindful that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, portion into airtight containers or freezer bags and label with the date. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop with a bit of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.
Reheating
To reheat, use a medium-low heat setting on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and uneven heating. Adding a splash of chicken broth, cream, or milk helps loosen the sauce and brings back that luscious creaminess you love. Microwave reheating works too but stir halfway through to ensure even warming and prevent dryness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, other pasta shapes like fusilli, rigatoni, or even fettuccine work wonderfully in this Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe. Just be sure to cook it al dente to maintain the best texture.
How spicy is this Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe?
This recipe has a moderate amount of heat from the Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper, but it’s easy to adjust. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce or omit the cayenne. For those who love a fiery kick, feel free to add more Cajun spice or some chopped jalapeños.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! To make a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative, use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and cream cheese, and opt for dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan. The flavors will remain rich and satisfying.
Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe, providing a juicier and slightly more flavorful option. Just be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and cook thoroughly, as thighs may take a little longer to cook than breasts.
Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook the pasta and chicken in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply make the sauce and combine everything for a quick, delicious meal. This is perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is a true celebration of flavor and comfort in every bite. It has all the elements that make for a memorable meal: tender, spicy chicken, fresh veggies, and a luscious, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing friends, this recipe shines with warmth and satisfaction. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
Print
Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish combining tender chicken morsels, sautéed bell peppers, and a rich, spicy cream sauce tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that delivers a delicious Southern twist perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta, cooked al dente according to package directions
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, diced
- ½ red bell pepper, seeded and diced
- ½ yellow bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
Seasonings
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside for later use.
- Sauté Vegetables: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent. Next, add the diced red and yellow bell peppers along with the minced garlic. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Continue cooking until the bell peppers soften and the spices are aromatic.
- Cook Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables and spices. Cook thoroughly, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet. Add the softened cream cheese and shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has completely melted and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, stirring well to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy Cajun sauce. Cook for a few minutes until the dish is heated through.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch, and serve hot to enjoy the rich and spicy flavors.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper used in the seasoning.
- Using freshly cooked pasta ensures better texture and sauce absorption.
- Feel free to substitute chicken breasts with boneless thighs for a juicier result.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated; add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 27 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
