Introduction

Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Cream Sauce is a bold and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce. The heat from the Cajun spices balances beautifully with the richness of the cream sauce, creating a dish that is both comforting and exciting for the taste buds.

This pasta is perfect for anyone who loves a little kick in their meals and wants a restaurant-quality dish at home. With a mix of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and a luscious sauce, it’s a satisfying dinner for weeknights, gatherings, or even a special occasion.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s full of bold flavors but still creamy and comforting. The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the silky cream sauce. Each bite offers a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and tender chicken.

It’s also versatile—you can adjust the spice level to your taste, and it’s a one-pan wonder that comes together quickly. The dish feels indulgent without being overly complicated, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home. The combination of creamy sauce, perfectly spiced chicken, and tender pasta is irresistible. It’s a crowd-pleaser that satisfies both spice lovers and comfort food enthusiasts.

The recipe is quick to prepare, fully customizable, and endlessly versatile, making it an ideal dish to keep in your repertoire for busy weeknights, dinner parties, or special occasions. Once you try it, the balance of heat, creaminess, and flavor will make it a go-to favorite.

Prep and Cook Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~550 kcal (may vary depending on cream and pasta used)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Cajun / American
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or penne pasta
• Salt for pasta water

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced into strips
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper

For the Cream Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta until al dente.
2. Season chicken with Cajun spices and sauté until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, melt butter, sauté garlic, then add cream and chicken broth.
4. Stir in Parmesan, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until thickened.
5. Toss pasta and chicken in sauce.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Method

1. Cook Pasta
   • Boil a large pot of salted water.
   • Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook Chicken
   • Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Cream Sauce
   • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
   • Sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Add heavy cream and chicken broth, bring to a gentle simmer.
   • Stir in Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Combine Pasta and Chicken
   • Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce.
   • Toss well to coat everything evenly.
   • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Serve
   • Plate pasta and garnish with chopped parsley.
   • Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in bowls or shallow pasta plates.
• Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
• A chilled white wine (like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc) complements the creaminess beautifully.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook the chicken; it will dry out.
• Adjust the Cajun seasoning according to your spice preference.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
• Reserve a small amount of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Variations

• Shrimp Version: Substitute shrimp for chicken.
• Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Extra Creamy: Add ¼ cup cream cheese for a richer sauce.
• Low Carb: Serve over zucchini noodles instead of pasta.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.
• Freezer: Not recommended, as cream sauce may separate when thawed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for pasta)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs or spatula

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this less spicy?
Yes, reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes.

Q2: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, add pre-cooked chicken at the end to warm through, but reduce sauce simmer time.

Q3: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and thick.

Conclusion

Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Cream Sauce is a perfect blend of heat, creaminess, and bold flavors. It’s a satisfying, restaurant-quality dish that can be made quickly at home, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious Cajun cream sauce, it’s a dish that will become a favorite in your recipe collection.