Go Back
CAJUN CHICKEN PASTA RECIPE centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Yesica Andrews

Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe Easy Weeknight Dinner

Enjoy a creamy cajun pasta dish featuring spicy chicken, tender bell peppers, and a rich sauce. This Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is perfect for an easy dinner or a quick weeknight meal that the whole family will love. Savor the flavors of this creamy cajun pasta and spicy chicken pasta combo in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 625

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless chicken breasts
  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Prepare the pasta according to the instructions on the package until it is al dente. Reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
  2. Cut the chicken into small bite-sized pieces then season with half of the Cajun seasoning, plus salt and black pepper to taste.
  3. Warm the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked, about 6 to 7 minutes, then set it aside.
  4. Using the same pan, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic, diced onion, and sliced bell peppers until they soften, around 4 to 5 minutes.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping the bottom to lift up any flavorful browned bits.
  6. Add the heavy cream and the remaining Cajun seasoning, gently simmer the mixture for 3 to 4 minutes allowing it to thicken slightly.
  7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce.
  8. Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss in the pasta, combining everything thoroughly. Add the reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
  9. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top and serve right away with extra Parmesan cheese if you like.

Notes

  • Keep leftovers sealed in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creaminess. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning depending on your taste preferences. For a lighter option, replace half of the heavy cream with additional chicken broth.