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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Dinner Recipe

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Dinner Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 5 reviews

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a bold and flavorful dinner featuring tender chicken breasts seasoned with Cajun spices, cooked to perfection and tossed with al dente pasta in a rich, velvety cream sauce infused with smoked paprika and Parmesan cheese. This dish balances spicy heat with creamy smoothness, making it a comforting yet exciting meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti
  • Salt, for the pasta water

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Optional Garnishes and Variations:

  • Red pepper flakes for extra heat
  • Fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish
  • Sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor
  • Shrimp as a substitute for chicken

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to infuse bold flavors. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken and let it rest before slicing into strips or bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. Drain the pasta and toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Make the Cajun Cream Sauce: In the same skillet used for chicken, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, letting the spices bloom in the butter for about 1 minute. Add 1 cup heavy cream and ½ cup chicken broth, stir well, and simmer for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Add ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning to taste.
  4. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen to desired consistency. Mix in the sliced chicken pieces, ensuring even distribution. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer, more flavorful result.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help it cling to the pasta.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
  • Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens the dish beautifully.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and a dairy-free butter alternative.
  • Sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms can be included for added nutrition and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta, creamy pasta recipe, spicy chicken pasta, easy Cajun dinner, Cajun cream sauce, chicken penne pasta

Find it online: https://dinewithdylan.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-pasta-a-bold-flavor-packed-dinner-recipe-2/