Cajun Chicken Pasta is known for its creamy sauce, spicy kick, and satisfying combination of chicken and pasta. It’s a popular dish at many restaurants, but the good news is that you can easily recreate this delicious meal in your own kitchen.
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make restaurant-style Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta at home. Made with simple, readily available ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat. Get ready to enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures of Cajun Chicken Pasta without leaving your house!
This recipe uses basic cooking techniques and familiar ingredients to create a homemade Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta that’s perfect for any occasion. Get ready to whip up a flavorful, satisfying pasta dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe isn’t just a tasty meal—it’s a creamy, spicy, and comforting addition to your culinary repertoire. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love it:
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor at Home: Enjoy the rich, complex flavors of Cajun Chicken Pasta without the restaurant price tag or the need to dine out.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under 45 minutes, making it a convenient and satisfying option.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste preferences, making it mild or fiery as you like.
- Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This dish is a guaranteed hit with family and friends, perfect for potlucks, dinner parties, or casual gatherings.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use your favorite pasta shape and vegetables to personalize the dish and make it your own.
- Comforting and Satisfying: With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and hearty pasta, this dish is the ultimate comfort food that will leave you feeling satisfied and content.
Once you try this creamy and flavorful Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’ll never need to order it at a restaurant again!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make restaurant-style Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta at home. The ingredients are easy to find, and the recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red, green, or yellow), chopped
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions:
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Cajun seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
How To Make Restaurant-Style Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions to create thick, creamy, and tangy Vegan Greek Yogurt right at home.
Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly.
Season the chicken with half of the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat thoroughly.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and set aside. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water.
Sauté the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the garlic and mushrooms and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender.
Create the Cajun Cream Sauce
Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to the vegetables. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to release the flavors.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and chopped green onions (if using).
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tip: Adjust cooking times based on your stove and ingredients. Watch the pasta carefully to prevent overcooking. Taste sauce before putting in the Pasta and add salt to your personal preference.
Tips and Notes for Perfect Cajun Chicken Pasta
To ensure your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta turns out creamy, flavorful, and delicious every time, here are some essential tips, ingredient swaps, and storage suggestions:
- Adjust the Spice Level: Taste and adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with a smaller amount and add more as needed.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor of the dish. If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley, but use about half the amount.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the creamy sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Save some of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables in this dish. Spinach, zucchini, and sun-dried tomatoes are all great options.
- Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Cajun seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Add Fresh lemon Juice at the end to brighten the flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Chicken: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, sausage, or tofu for a different protein option.
- Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
- Heavy Cream: Use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free option (note that this will change the flavor and texture slightly).
Parmesan Cheese: Substitute nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
Storage and Reheating:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary. You can also microwave it, but the texture may change slightly.
Pro Tip: When reheating, add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors and refresh the dish.
Variations
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe is incredibly versatile and can be customized in many ways to suit your taste preferences. Here are some delicious variations to try:
- Shrimp Cajun Pasta:
Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a seafood-inspired version. If you enjoy seafood pasta dishes, you might also love our decadent Easy Lobster Pasta in a Garlic Butter Sauce, perfect for a luxurious twist on your favorite comfort food.
Cook the shrimp in the same manner as the chicken, seasoning with Cajun spices. - Spicy Sausage Cajun Pasta:
Use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken for a bolder flavor.
Slice the sausage into rounds before cooking. - Vegetarian Cajun Pasta:
Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, and onions.
Consider adding plant-based protein sources like chickpeas or black beans. - Creamy Tomato Cajun Pasta:
Add a can of diced tomatoes to the sauce for a tangy twist.
Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor. - Spinach and Artichoke Cajun Pasta:
Stir in chopped spinach and artichoke hearts to the sauce for a creamy, flavorful variation.
Use frozen spinach, making sure to squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the sauce.
These variations allow you to get creative with your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, making it a dish that’s always exciting and tailored to your preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of delicious ways. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your pasta experience:
- Side Salad:
Serve with a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist. - Garlic Bread:
Pair with warm, crusty garlic bread for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Spread garlic butter on slices of bread and bake until golden brown. For another creamy pasta dish pairing, check out our flavorful Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta. The lemon and garlic notes perfectly complement the richness of the Cajun cream sauce. - Roasted Vegetables:
Serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrients and flavor.
Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting. - Cornbread:
Serve with a slice of warm cornbread for a comforting Southern-style meal.
Add jalapeños to the cornbread batter for a spicy kick. - Wine Pairing:
Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
The acidity of the wine complements the creaminess of the pasta. - Parmesan and Red Pepper Flakes:
Set a bowl with Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, basil, and salt and pepper out so each guest can add to their liking.
Pro Tip: For a complete meal, serve the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with a side of steamed green beans or sautéed spinach.
Print
Restaurant-Style Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta at Home
Craving that restaurant-quality Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta? This easy recipe brings the flavor home in under 30 minutes! Creamy, spicy, and totally satisfying.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in skillet. Add chicken and cook until browned. Remove from skillet.
- Add onion and bell pepper to skillet. Cook until softened. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until thickened.
- Add chicken and pasta to sauce; toss to coat.
- Garnish with parsley and green onions (optional).
- Serve immediately!
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
- Use your favorite pasta shape!
- For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: creamy cajun chicken pasta, cajun pasta recipe, chicken pasta, easy pasta recipe, restaurant-style pasta, weeknight dinner
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe is more than just a delicious meal—it’s a creamy, spicy, and satisfying culinary adventure. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love making it at home:
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor at Home: Enjoy the rich, complex flavors of Cajun Chicken Pasta without the restaurant price tag or the need to dine out.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under 45 minutes, making it a convenient and satisfying option.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste preferences, making it mild or fiery as you like.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use your favorite pasta shape and vegetables to personalize the dish and make it your own.
- Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This dish is a guaranteed hit with family and friends, perfect for potlucks, dinner parties, or casual gatherings.
- Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free Options: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients
Once you try this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’ll see why it’s a must-have in any kitchen. Creamy, spicy, and full of flavor—every bite is pure satisfaction!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine are classic choices, you can use any pasta shape you love. Rotini, bowties, or even spaghetti will work well in this dish. Just be sure to cook it al dente!
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Of course! If you like a lot of heat, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning to the dish. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
While heavy cream provides the richest and most decadent sauce, you can use half-and-half or milk as a lighter alternative. Keep in mind that the sauce may be a bit thinner if you use milk.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
While heavy cream provides the richest and most decadent sauce, you can use half-and-half or milk as a lighter alternative. Keep in mind that the sauce may be a bit thinner if you use milk.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
No problem! You can make your own Cajun seasoning blend by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and black pepper. There are plenty of homemade Cajun seasoning recipes online!
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative and add your favorite vegetables. Spinach, zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes are all delicious additions to this dish.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken to save time. Rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken strips are great options. Just add them to the skillet at the end to warm through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overheat it.
Can I freeze this recipe?
While you can freeze this recipe, keep in mind that the texture of the sauce may change after thawing. The cream can sometimes separate, but the dish will still be tasty.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by using coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
Is there another cheese I can use?
You sure can. You can use cheddar, parmesan, or even goat cheese if you want to enhance the flavor.
The sauce is too thin, what can I do?
Add more cheese, or add a little more corn starch so that it becomes thicker.
What spice can I use to substitute and enhance the flavour?
If you can’t find Cajun spice, consider paprika!
