This Cajun chicken pasta brings the perfect mix of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and just the right amount of spice. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for a quick dinner that feels special without the fuss.
Why We Love This Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
There’s something magical about a dish that can do it all. Here’s why you’ll find yourself making this recipe over and over again:
Balanced heat and creaminess that make each bite irresistible
Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
Uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients you likely already have
Restaurant-quality taste made at home
Customizable for different diets or spice preferences
One-pan cooking means fewer dishes and faster cleanup
Ingredients
Chicken breasts – Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender, juicy pieces that cook evenly. For best results, pound slightly to ensure even thickness and faster cooking.
Cajun seasoning – This is the heart of the Cajun chicken pasta’s bold flavor. Choose a good-quality blend or make your own. Adjust the amount to control the spice level exactly how you like it.
Olive oil – Essential for searing the chicken and sautéing the veggies. It adds a subtle fruity flavor and helps keep the chicken moist.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds depth and aroma that elevate the creamy Cajun chicken pasta sauce.
Bell peppers – Red and yellow bell peppers bring sweetness and crunch that balance the spice, adding color and freshness to your Cajun chicken pasta.
Onion – Thinly sliced onion provides a mild sweetness and savory base that complements the Cajun spices perfectly.
Heavy cream – The creamy backbone of this Cajun chicken pasta sauce. It creates a rich, luscious texture that coats every bite.
Chicken broth – Adds savory depth to the sauce without overpowering the other flavors in the Cajun chicken pasta.
How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta
Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes).
Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
Pat chicken dry and season both sides with Cajun seasoning.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
Remove from the pan and let rest, then slice thinly.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add remaining oil.
Sauté garlic, onions, and bell peppers for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Make the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium.
Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth.
Add Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet.
Toss everything together until evenly coated with the sauce.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top.
Serve warm and enjoy every creamy, spicy forkful.
Expert Tips for the Best Cajun Chicken Pasta
Here’s how to take your pasta game to the next level:
Pound the chicken slightly for even cooking and tenderness.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
Control the heat—if your Cajun seasoning is spicy, taste before adding more.
Don’t overcook the pasta—it should be firm enough to hold up in the sauce.
Reserve a bit of pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
Cajun Chicken Pasta Variations
This recipe is as flexible as it is flavorful. Here are a few twists you can try:
Swap proteins: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different taste.
Go veggie: Replace chicken with mushrooms or zucchini.
Make it dairy-free: Use coconut milk or unsweetened cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
Add extra heat: Sprinkle in cayenne or serve with a side of hot sauce.
Low-carb option: Swap the pasta for spiralized zucchini or low-carb noodles.
What to Serve with Cajun Chicken Pasta
Round out your meal with sides that complement the creamy, spicy main dish:
Crusty garlic bread to soak up extra sauce
Fresh green salad with vinaigrette to balance richness
Grilled corn on the cob with Cajun butter
Roasted broccoli or asparagus for a healthy bite
Chilled lemonade or iced tea to cool things down
More Pasta recipes you will love!
FAQ About Cajun Chicken Pasta
What is Cajun chicken pasta made of?
Cajun chicken pasta combines seasoned chicken, pasta, bell peppers, onions, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese for a spicy, creamy, and comforting dish.
Is Cajun chicken pasta spicy?
It can be, depending on the Cajun seasoning used. Most store-bought blends are moderately spicy, but you can adjust the amount to fit your taste.
Can I make Cajun chicken pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Fettuccine, penne, or linguine are top choices because they hold the sauce well and offer a satisfying bite.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Just use gluten-free pasta and make sure your Cajun seasoning doesn’t include hidden gluten.
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot
- Strainer
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente (8–10 minutes), then drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Pat chicken dry and coat with Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove and slice thinly.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add remaining oil. Sauté garlic, onions, and bell peppers for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Make the Sauce: Lower heat to medium. Add heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine and Serve: Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat in sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.