Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb chicken breast, sliced; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Plates

I absolutely love making this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta because it’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The richness of the cream, the spice from the Cajun seasoning, and the tender chicken come together beautifully in just about 30 minutes. It’s a dish that satisfies both my cravings for comfort food and something a little adventurous. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta never fails to impress!

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:41:36.739Z

One of my favorite culinary experiments involved tweaking a traditional pasta recipe into this creamy, spicy delight. I wanted to incorporate bold flavors while still preserving the whimsical comfort that pasta offers. The key was to sauté the chicken with a generous amount of Cajun seasoning, which a friend introduced me to. It not only enhanced the flavor but created a beautifully caramelized crust that packs a punch.

As I meticulously folded in the cream and Parmesan, I was amazed at how seamlessly they married together, creating a luscious sauce that clung to every strand of pasta. I discovered that cooking the pasta al dente before combining it with the sauce allows it to absorb the flavors perfectly, making the final dish genuinely irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of creamy richness and spicy heat
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights
Comfort food that feels like a gourmet meal

Choosing the Right Pasta

When it comes to creamy sauces, the type of pasta you choose can greatly impact your dish's final texture and flavor. Fettuccine, with its wide shape, holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying. However, if you’re in the mood for something different, penne or fusilli can also work well as they capture the sauce in their nooks and crannies. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time according to the pasta type you opt for.

To achieve the best results, remember to cook the pasta until it’s al dente. This not only ensures the noodles maintain some bite but also helps them better absorb the creamy sauce, elevating the overall flavor. If you're cooking a large batch, consider reserving some pasta cooking water before draining, as it can be a valuable tool for adjusting the sauce’s consistency should it become too thick.

Perfecting the Sauce

Creating a creamy sauce that complements the Cajun-spiced chicken is crucial to this dish. Start by simmering the heavy cream over medium-low heat; this gentle heat allows the cream to thicken slightly without curdling. You’ll want to watch for bubbling edges—this indicates it’s reached the right temperature without boiling vigorously, which can alter the sauce's texture.

Parmesan cheese plays a vital role in the sauce, adding depth and a savory umami flavor. To achieve a smooth and glossy finish, stir the cheese in gradually after the cream has simmered. If you find your sauce isn't as creamy as you'd like, consider adding more cream, or a splash of the reserved pasta water, which will enhance its silkiness.

Ingredients

For the pasta

8 oz fettuccine pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb chicken breast, sliced
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and add sliced chicken. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the chicken and sauté until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Create the sauce

Once the chicken is done, reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for a few minutes before adding the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing everything together to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños to the skillet when cooking the chicken. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half the cream with chicken broth. Don't forget to save some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed!

Storing and Reheating

If you make more pasta than you can eat, storing leftovers properly is key to enjoying this dish later. Allow the pasta to cool before transferring it to an airtight container; it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To prevent the pasta from sticking together, you may want to drizzle a little olive oil over it before sealing the container.

When it's time to reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Adding a splash of chicken broth or milk will help to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can lead to uneven heating and a rubbery texture.

Variations and Add-Ins

While this recipe shines as is, there are plenty of ways to customize your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. For a touch of freshness, consider adding sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet along with the chicken. These veggies not only boost the nutrition but also introduce new textures that complement the creamy sauce wonderfully.

For a different protein, shrimp makes an excellent substitution. Simply sauté the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side, and follow the same steps for adding them to the sauce. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, swap in mushrooms or chickpeas to provide substance while still adhering to the spicy, creamy theme.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta work perfectly with this sauce.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The level of spice depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet.