It is 6pm and you need dinner fast. If you are craving something creamy and comforting, this recipe is for you. This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta delivers big flavor with very little effort. You will have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in 35 minutes.
Why You’ll Make This Again
You will make this again because it is incredibly reliable. It is the ultimate comfort food for a cold winter night. The spicy kick from the seasoning balances the rich cheese sauce perfectly. This recipe is a lifesaver for any quick weeknight dinner.
Your family will love the bold flavors and cheesy texture. It uses simple pantry staples you likely already have. You get a satisfying meal without a sink full of dishes. It is the perfect way to warm up after a long day.
How This Comes Together
This dish comes together in just a few simple stages. You boil the pasta while you sear the seasoned chicken. The sauce builds right in the same skillet for maximum flavor. It is a foolproof way to get a hearty meal fast. Even beginners can master this creamy sauce with ease.
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to get started. Most of these are pantry staples you already own.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 12 oz dry penne pasta
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt
Step-By-Step Directions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, toss the chicken cubes with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until fully cooked and browned, approximately 6 to 8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the skillet by pouring in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.
- Whisk in the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet along with the cooked chicken. Toss thoroughly to coat everything in the cheese sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
How To Serve It
Serve this in big, warm bowls with a side of garlic bread. A crisp green salad helps cut through the rich cheese sauce. It is perfect for a cozy family dinner or casual hosting. Your guests will think you spent hours in the kitchen. For a visual pop, add an extra sprinkle of parsley on top.
Leftovers & Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh and delicious for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. This helps maintain that creamy texture you love. I do not recommend freezing this dish as the cream may separate.
Make It Even Better (Pro Tips)
- Don’t skip searing the chicken until it is golden brown.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; keep it al dente for the best texture.
- Use a high-quality Cajun seasoning for the best spicy kick.
- Save a little pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
- For a winter twist, add some sautéed bell peppers for color.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a much smoother melt.
Easy Ways To Change It Up
- Swap the chicken for shrimp for a seafood version.
- Add fresh spinach at the end for an easy veggie boost.
- Use gluten-free penne to make this dish allergy-friendly.
- Try smoked paprika instead of Cajun seasoning for less heat.
Quick Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, chicken thighs work great and stay very juicy. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees. They may take a few extra minutes to cook.
Is this pasta very spicy?
The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning brand. You can use less seasoning if you prefer a milder flavor. The cream and cheese also help mellow the heat.
I hope you love this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta as much as I do. It is the perfect solution for those busy nights when you need comfort fast. Give it a try tonight!
— Ethan
Creamy Cajun Chicken with Cheesy Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, toss the chicken cubes with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until fully cooked and browned, approximately 6 to 8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the skillet by pouring in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.
- Whisk in the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet along with the cooked chicken. Toss thoroughly to coat everything in the cheese sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
