Spicy Cajun Honey Butter Chicken & Pasta

Spicy Cajun Honey Butter Chicken & Pasta is a bold, flavorful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with creamy pasta, a touch of sweetness from honey, and a kick of Cajun heat. It’s the kind of comforting, satisfying meal I crave when I want something rich, spicy, and absolutely unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe balances heat, sweetness, and creaminess all in one bite. The Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a smoky, spicy depth, while the honey butter adds a silky sweetness that brings everything together. Tossing it all with pasta makes it hearty and comforting—perfect for a family dinner or an indulgent night in.

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• Cajun seasoning

• Salt and pepper

• Olive oil

• Butter

• Honey

• Garlic (minced)

• Heavy cream

• Parmesan cheese (grated)

• Pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. I start by seasoning the chicken generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

2. I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken on both sides until cooked through and golden brown. Then I remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

3. In the same skillet, I melt butter and stir in the honey and minced garlic, letting it simmer for a minute until fragrant.

4. I return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the honey butter mixture over it, allowing it to glaze beautifully. Then I slice the chicken.

5. In a separate pot, I cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain it.

6. For the sauce, I pour heavy cream into the same skillet with the honey butter remnants and bring it to a simmer. I stir in grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a rich, creamy sauce.

7. I toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, top it with the sliced Cajun honey butter chicken, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. I usually set aside around 15 minutes for prep and 25 minutes for cooking, making the total time about 40 minutes.

Variations

When I want to lighten it up, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. I’ve also tried it with shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist. For an extra punch, I add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Sometimes I mix in sautéed bell peppers or spinach for more color and texture.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use a skillet over low heat and add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too, but I stir often and reheat in short bursts to keep the chicken tender.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

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

What kind of pasta works best?

I like using fettuccine or penne since they hold onto the creamy sauce well, but almost any pasta shape works.

Can I make it less spicy?

Yes, I reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. I also skip the red pepper flakes when I want it milder.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. I actually prefer thighs for their juiciness and richer flavor, especially in this recipe.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

If I want a richer sauce, I add more Parmesan or a bit of cream cheese. It thickens nicely and adds extra depth.

Conclusion

Spicy Cajun Honey Butter Chicken & Pasta is one of my go-to comfort meals when I want something bold, rich, and loaded with flavor. From the golden, spicy chicken to the creamy, honey-kissed sauce, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. I love how easily it comes together and how completely satisfying each bite is.