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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in bowl

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe – Bold, Spicy, and Comforting

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  • Author: Isabella
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Total Time: 40 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired

Description

Tender chicken coated in a rich, spicy Cajun cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. The bold flavors of smoked paprika, garlic, and a hint of heat create a satisfying, comforting dish that’s creamy, zesty, and irresistibly delicious!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a cutting board to rest for a few minutes.

5. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

6. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.

7. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.

8. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

9. Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth.

10. While the sauce is simmering, cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package directions.

11. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

12. Slice the rested chicken breasts into thin strips.

13. Add the drained fettuccine pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.

14. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, to reach your desired consistency.

15. Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice, and then add the sliced chicken on top of the pasta.

16. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

17. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired.


Notes

Make sure to let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.

If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce.

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the dish for extra flavor and color.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 620