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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This creamy Cajun chicken pasta is a bold and comforting dish featuring tender seasoned chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich parmesan cream sauce. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 plates
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)
  • extra parmesan for topping (optional)

Equipment

  • large pot for boiling pasta
  • large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
  • colander for draining pasta
  • mixing bowl for seasoning
  • wooden spoon for stirring

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, mix all Cajun seasoning ingredients. Toss sliced chicken with half of the seasoning until evenly coated.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add heavy cream and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Stir in grated parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss until everything is well coated in the sauce.
  8. Garnish with parsley, bell peppers if using, and extra parmesan before serving.

Notes

Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level. Slice chicken evenly for consistent cooking. Use freshly grated parmesan for the best texture. Keep the cream at a gentle simmer to prevent curdling. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.