Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine to your dinner table. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta for a meal that is both satisfying and full of flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is easy to make and sure to please everyone.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta because it is quick, easy, and full of flavor. The combination of spices in the Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a nice kick while the creamy sauce adds richness. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup for you. This dish is also versatile and can be adjusted to your taste by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Making Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is simple! Follow these easy steps to create a delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- While the oil is heating, season both sides of the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a cutting board to rest for a few minutes.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth.
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package directions.
- Once the pasta is al dente, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Slice the rested chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Add the drained fettuccine pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, to reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice, and then add the sliced chicken on top of the pasta.
- Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta hot and garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. You can pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is great for sharing, so feel free to serve it family-style right from the skillet!
How to Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
To store any leftovers, place the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken in the fridge.
Tips to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Adjust the heat: If you like things spicy, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Fresh ingredients: Use fresh garlic and parsley for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked through but still juicy for the best texture.
Variation
For a little twist, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Sauté them in the skillet after cooking the chicken for added flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or linguine. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q2: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A2: Absolutely! Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is great for meal prep. Just store it in portions and reheat when needed.
Q3: What can I serve with this dish?
A3: This pasta pairs well with a crisp side salad, garlic bread, or even steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
