If you are craving a dish that effortlessly brings bold flavors and comforting creaminess together, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender strips of Cajun-seasoned chicken nestled in a luscious, rich sauce with a perfect touch of garlic and tomatoes, all tossed with al dente linguine pasta. It’s a perfect blend of spice, cream, and cheesy goodness that brightens up any weeknight dinner or special occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe promises to deliver a hearty, flavorful experience that everyone at the table will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward yet impactful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in achieving the vibrant taste, creamy texture, and appealing color of the dish. From the aromatic Cajun seasoning to the fresh parsley garnish, every element contributes something special that comes together beautifully in the final plate.
- 8 oz linguine pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and provide a satisfying chew.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean, the star protein that’ll soak up those bold Cajun spices.
- 2 tsp olive oil: Essential for searing the chicken, adding a subtle fruitiness and helping develop that irresistible crust.
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create a velvety sauce base when combined with garlic.
- 1 1/2 to 2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning: The heart of the dish, delivering a perfect kick of heat and depth with smoky, savory notes.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the sauce with a fragrant aroma that’s utterly mouthwatering.
- 2/3 cup diced tomatoes: Adds a slight tang and fresh color contrast to balance the creamy sauce.
- 1 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream: Creates that luxurious, silky texture that coats every bite.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the creaminess and enriches the sauce.
- 2 Tbsp parsley (finely chopped, to serve): Adds a fresh, herbaceous brightness that finishes the dish beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Linguine Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a vigorous boil and add a tablespoon of salt. This enhances the pasta’s flavor as it cooks. Boil the linguine according to package instructions until it reaches al dente—a tender bite without being mushy. Before draining, save about half a cup of the starchy pasta water; this will help you adjust the sauce consistency later. Then, drain and cover the pasta to keep warm.
Step 2: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Even out the thickness of the chicken breasts by pounding them gently; this ensures even cooking. Then, sprinkle 1½ tablespoons of Cajun seasoning all over the chicken, coating every surface well. This step is crucial to infuse those bold flavors that define the dish.
Step 3: Sear and Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear each side until you get a golden crust, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Lower the heat and cook gently until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s juicy and safe to eat. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board, slice it thinly, and cover to keep warm and juicy.
Step 4: Build the Flavor Base with Butter, Garlic, and Tomatoes
Reduce the skillet heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 30 to 60 seconds—watch closely to avoid burning. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes; this step softens the tomatoes slightly and deepens their flavor, creating a lovely base for the sauce.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Pour in 1½ cups of heavy whipping cream, stirring to combine fully with the tomato mixture. Add the remaining Cajun seasoning, adjusting to taste depending on how spicy you want the sauce. Sprinkle in ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce, giving it a rich, silky finish. Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer to meld all the flavors together.
Step 6: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
Add the sliced chicken and cooked linguine directly into the creamy sauce. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken evenly, heating through gently. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved warm pasta water to loosen it up, achieving the perfect creamy consistency. Once combined, your dreamy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is ready to serve!
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the dish visually and add a fresh contrast, sprinkle finely chopped parsley over the pasta right before serving. A little extra freshly grated parmesan on top adds an inviting touch of nuttiness and extra creaminess with every forkful. These simple garnishes make the meal look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully to balance the richness of the pasta. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli bring color and a hint of crunch. For a more indulgent meal, some garlic bread or toasted baguette slices make perfect companions that soak up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fancy dinner, serve this pasta in shallow bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky flourish. You could also add a wedge of lemon on the side to allow diners to add brightness if desired. For casual family dinners, simply plate it family-style in a large serving bowl garnished with parsley, encouraging everyone to dig in together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftover Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers if necessary. Place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. Keep in mind the texture of cream-based sauces might change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
When ready to eat the leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to restore the creamy consistency. Microwave reheating works too, but stir often to heat evenly and avoid overcooking the chicken or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine is a great choice to hold the sauce, fettuccine, penne, or even rotini can be wonderful substitutes depending on your preference. Just be sure to cook the pasta until al dente for the best texture.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this recipe?
The heat level depends on the brand of Cajun seasoning you use and how much you add. This recipe suggests between 1½ to 2 tablespoons, so feel free to adjust to your liking. If you prefer milder dishes, start with less and add more gradually.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To keep it dairy-free, you can substitute heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and a dairy-free butter alternative. Parmesan cheese can be replaced with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, although the dish’s texture and taste will be slightly different.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh parsley for garnish?
Dried parsley can work in a pinch, but fresh parsley really brightens and freshens the dish. Alternatively, a sprinkle of chopped green onions or basil leaves can add a fresh herbaceous note that complements the Cajun flavors nicely.
Is the chicken cooked before adding it to the sauce?
Yes, the chicken breasts are seared and cooked through before slicing and adding to the sauce. This ensures they stay juicy and perfectly cooked while absorbing all the creamy Cajun goodness in the final step.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so special about a dish that combines creamy, spicy, and comforting elements all in one pot—and that’s exactly what this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe does. Whether you’re feeding family or guests, it’s sure to please with its vibrant flavors and luscious texture. So roll up your sleeves, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself to a meal that feels like a warm, flavorful hug. You’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish combining tender cajun-spiced chicken, al dente linguine, and a rich creamy sauce with parmesan and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that delivers on taste and texture in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 1 Tbsp salt (for boiling water)
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1½ Tbsp cajun seasoning (for seasoning chicken)
For the Sauce
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2/3 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 to 2 Tbsp cajun seasoning (divided, includes remaining seasoning for sauce)
- 1 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
To Serve
- 2 Tbsp parsley (finely chopped)
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 Tbsp salt. Cook the linguine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain. Cover to keep warm.
- Prepare the chicken: Beat the chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking. Season all over with 1½ Tbsp cajun seasoning to infuse the chicken with robust flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat 2 tsp olive oil in a large non-reactive skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear until golden brown on both sides. Reduce heat to low and continue sautéing until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F. Transfer to a cutting board, slice thinly, and cover to keep warm.
- Sauté garlic and tomatoes: In the same skillet over medium heat, melt 2 Tbsp unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the diced tomatoes and sauté for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Make the sauce: Pour in 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, add the remaining cajun seasoning to taste, and stir in 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine pasta and chicken with sauce: Add the sliced chicken and cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated and warmed through. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved warm pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Serve: Plate the creamy cajun chicken pasta and garnish with finely chopped parsley and additional freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use a non-reactive skillet like stainless steel or cast iron to prevent any metallic taste when cooking acidic ingredients.
- Adjust the amount of cajun seasoning based on the brand and your preferred spice level.
- Reserving pasta water is important to loosen up the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Make sure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
