Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This creamy Cajun chicken pasta is spicy, rich, and incredibly satisfying. I like how the smoky Cajun seasoning pairs perfectly with tender chicken, bell peppers, and a creamy sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. It’s a hearty meal that’s both comforting and full of bold flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s simple to make yet tastes like something I’d order at a restaurant. The Cajun spices bring heat and depth, while the cream balances it with smoothness. I enjoy how versatile it is too—I can make it mild or extra spicy depending on my mood, and it’s a great way to impress at dinner without much effort.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• penne or fettuccine pasta

• chicken breasts, sliced into strips

• Cajun seasoning

• olive oil

• butter

• red bell pepper, sliced

• yellow bell pepper, sliced

• garlic, minced

• heavy cream

• chicken broth

• Parmesan cheese, grated

• salt

• black pepper

• parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. I cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

2. I season the chicken generously with Cajun seasoning.

3. In a large skillet, I heat olive oil and butter, then cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. I remove it and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, I sauté the bell peppers and garlic until softened.

5. I pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer.

6. I stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

7. I return the chicken to the pan, add the pasta, and toss everything together.

8. I season with more Cajun spice, salt, and pepper to taste, then garnish with parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It usually takes me 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, so it’s ready in around 40 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood version. When I want more veggies, I add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. For extra heat, I sprinkle in cayenne pepper or use a spicier Cajun blend.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the pasta gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. I avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the sauce separate.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes, I often use store-bought, but I sometimes make my own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano.

Can I make this pasta less spicy?

Yes, I use less Cajun seasoning and balance it with extra cream for a milder version.

What pasta shape works best?

I usually use penne or fettuccine, but rigatoni, linguine, or spaghetti also work well.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative, which still gives a creamy texture.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, I make it ahead and store it in individual portions. It reheats well with a splash of cream or broth added.

Conclusion

This creamy Cajun chicken pasta is one of my favorite comfort meals because it’s bold, creamy, and satisfying. I like how the spice blends with the richness of the sauce, making it a dish that always hits the spot. Whether I serve it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a recipe I come back to again and again.