Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta brings bold Southern flavors to your table with minimal effort. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked linguine, and a rich, garlicky cream sauce create a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant, ideal for busy weeknights.

The smoky kick of Cajun seasoning blends with fresh garlic and diced tomatoes, adding depth to every bite. Parmesan cheese melts into the velvety sauce, creating a luscious texture that clings beautifully to each strand of pasta.

Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss. Whether for a quick family dinner or an impressive date-night meal, this creamy pasta satisfies cravings with its irresistible balance of spice and creaminess.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Ingredients

Linguine Pasta – The perfect canvas for rich, spicy flavors, its silky strands soak up the creamy Cajun sauce beautifully.

Chicken Breasts – Juicy and tender, they bring hearty protein and a mild taste that balances the bold seasoning.

Cajun Seasoning – A smoky, peppery blend that delivers the signature kick and vibrant Southern character to every bite.

Garlic – Aromatic and savory, it deepens the sauce with irresistible warmth and flavor.

Heavy Cream – The key to a velvety, luxurious sauce that ties the spices and textures together.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, salty richness, creating a smooth, decadent finish that elevates the entire dish.

Recipe Tips

Perfectly Seasoned Chicken
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning to ensure they cook uniformly and stay juicy. This step also allows the Cajun spices to coat the meat evenly, creating a flavorful crust that locks in moisture and enhances every bite.

Build Flavor in the Skillet
After searing the chicken, don’t clean the skillet. Those browned bits on the bottom are packed with flavor. Sautéing the garlic and tomatoes in this same pan deglazes those savory drippings, giving the sauce a rich, smoky depth that defines Cajun cooking.

Control the Creaminess
For a silky sauce that clings to each strand of pasta, add the heavy cream slowly and stir continuously. If you prefer a lighter texture, incorporate a splash of reserved pasta water to thin the sauce without diluting its taste, keeping it velvety and cohesive.

What to Serve with Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Balance this indulgent dish with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to refresh the palate. Warm garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are perfect for soaking up the creamy Cajun sauce. For a heartier spread, serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini—their natural sweetness complements the spicy, smoky flavors beautifully.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti all work well and hold the creamy sauce nicely.

How can I make it less spicy?
Reduce the Cajun seasoning or choose a mild blend to tone down the heat without sacrificing flavor.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can be used for a slightly lighter yet still creamy sauce.

How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is an effortlessly satisfying dish, ideal for weeknight meals. Tender chicken breast is combined with perfectly cooked pasta and enveloped in a rich Cajun-spiced garlic cream sauce. This flavorful recipe comes together in just 30 minutes.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 5 People

Course: pasta

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz linguine pasta
• 1½ to 2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning divided (adjust according to preferred brand or taste)
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves finely minced
• 2/3 cup diced tomatoes
• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 Tbsp finely chopped parsley for garnish

Method

 

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain, cover, and keep warm.
2. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season thoroughly with 1½ tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, ensuring the surface is evenly coated.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large non-reactive skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear on both sides until golden. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a cutting board, slice into thin strips, and cover to retain warmth.
4. Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for 30–60 seconds until aromatic, then add the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Pour in the heavy cream, incorporate the remaining Cajun seasoning to taste, and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Allow the mixture to reach a gentle simmer, seasoning further if necessary.
6. Return the sliced chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated and heated through. If needed, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.

Notes

Avoid cast-iron or copper pans when preparing creamy sauces with acidic ingredients, such as tomatoes, to prevent graininess. If the Cajun seasoning contains significant salt, start with half the amount and increase to taste.