Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors – The combination of Cajun seasoning and creamy sauce gives this pasta a perfect kick.
• Creamy & Comforting – A rich, velvety sauce that coats every strand of pasta for maximum indulgence.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner.
• Customizable – Add more vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.
• One-Pot Meal – Simple to make and minimal clean-up required, perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 oz linguine pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 to 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided (adjust to taste)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2/3 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped (for serving)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, drain, and keep the pasta warm.

Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

1. Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness and season them with 1 1/2 tbsp of Cajun seasoning.
2. Heat 2 tsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts on both sides until cooked through.
3. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board, slice thinly, and keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp of butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
2. Add diced tomatoes and sauté for another 2 minutes.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, add the remaining Cajun seasoning, and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a simmer, letting it thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the sliced chicken and cooked linguine to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well combined.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish the pasta with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a flavorful vegetarian twist.
• Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or sausage for a different protein option.
• Extra Spice: Add extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of red pepper flakes if you like a spicier dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work great as substitutes for linguine.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can cook the chicken and pasta in advance, then combine everything and reheat when ready to serve.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. Start with less and add more to adjust to your preference.

Can I use a different protein?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a different flavor profile.

Can I freeze this pasta?

It’s not recommended to freeze the creamy sauce as it may separate when reheated. However, you can freeze the chicken and pasta separately, then combine and heat them when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors. It’s an easy, comforting dish that can be enjoyed on any weeknight or served as a special meal. This flavorful pasta is sure to become a favorite in your household!