Description
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings together bold flavor and rich, cheesy indulgence. Juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken rests on top of pasta smothered in a luscious garlic cream sauce made with Parmesan and mozzarella. Whether you’re searching for quick dinner ideas, a weeknight recipe, or a creamy pasta dish to wow your guests, this one delivers big flavor with simple steps. Perfect for fans of easy dinner recipes, spicy food ideas, and cheesy pasta cravings.
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
8 ounces penne pasta
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
½ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
1. Pat chicken breasts dry and season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain pasta and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and add butter. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Gradually stir in Parmesan and mozzarella, allowing each addition to melt completely before adding more.
7. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until fully coated. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to thicken. Add pasta water as needed.
8. Slice rested chicken and serve on top of pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce—pre-shredded cheese may cause clumps.
Reserve your pasta water—it helps adjust the sauce consistency and makes it cling to the pasta.
Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy and flavorful.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American / Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: creamy cajun chicken pasta, chicken pasta, quick dinner, easy recipe, spicy pasta, cheesy pasta, pasta dinner ideas