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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 19 reviews

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying dish featuring tender Cajun-seasoned chicken breasts served over pasta tossed in a rich, creamy sauce made with butter, garlic, smoked paprika, heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. This dish balances bold spicy flavors with rich and smooth textures, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or weekend treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black 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
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms
  • Shrimp as a substitute for chicken

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Remove from skillet and let rest. Slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining. Drain pasta and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Make the Cajun Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika; let spices bloom for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 4-5 minutes until sauce slightly thickens. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning if needed.
  4. Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to thin. Add sliced chicken to the skillet and toss everything together. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor.
  • Reserve pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce consistency.
  • Substitute shrimp for chicken for a seafood variation.
  • For extra heat, sprinkle with red pepper flakes when serving.
  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and balances richness.
  • Adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach enhances nutrition and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta, creamy Cajun pasta, Cajun seasoning recipe, creamy chicken pasta, Cajun spice pasta

Find it online: https://nayabaker.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-pasta-recipe/