Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
A deliciously bold dish that combines creamy pasta with the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning, perfect for a quick family meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Can substitute with shrimp for a lighter dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For frying the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Use more or less depending on desired spice level.
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti Any pasta shape will work.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter For making the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced For flavoring the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Additional seasoning for the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half or plant-based cream for a lighter version.
- ½ cup chicken broth Can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) For garnish.
- Red pepper flakes For added heat if desired.
- Fresh lemon juice For a bright finish.
- Sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms (optional) Optional for added nutrition and flavor.
- Shrimp as a chicken substitute (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning on both sides.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken and let it rest.
- While the chicken is resting, boil a pot of salted water. Add 12 oz of chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the rest.
Cooking the Sauce
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and melt it over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Mix in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, cooking for another minute.
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of chicken broth. Let it simmer for about 4-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat each piece with the sauce.
- Use the reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce if needed.
- Add sliced chicken back into the skillet and mix everything well.
Garnishing and Serving
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley, more Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Notes
For best results, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear. Adjust the sauce texture using reserved pasta water if necessary. Watch the garlic while sautéing to prevent burning it.
