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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delicious, hearty dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a dinner party with friends.

 

Main image of creamy cajun chicken pasta

 

This dish is loaded with tender chicken breast, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce that’s full of flavor.

The spice level can be adjusted to suit your preference, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone.

The sauce helps to balance out the spiciness of the cajun seasoning, creating a well-rounded and satisfying flavor.

This cajun chicken pasta recipe is a great option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner

With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time.

One pot cajun chicken pasta is a crowd-pleaser and is sure to be a hit with the whole family. 

 

cajun seasoned chicken breasts, on cutting board

 

What Ingredients are in Cajun Chicken Pasta?

To make Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Butter: This adds richness and flavor to the dish.
  • Olive Oil: Used to cook the chicken breast, garlic, and other ingredients.
  • Chicken Breasts: The star of the dish. Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results.
  • Cajun Seasoning: A blend of spices that gives this dish its distinctive flavor.
  • Chicken Broth: Provides a base for the sauce and adds depth of flavor.
  • Angel Hair Pasta: A thin, delicate pasta that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
  • Garlic Cloves: Adds a pungent flavor to the dish.
  • Salt and Pepper: To season the dish.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor to the sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Heavy whipping cream thickens the sauce and adds richness.
  • Green Onions: Chopped and sprinkled on top of the dish for a pop of color and flavor.

Pro Tips:

  • Swap garlic paste for the minced garlic if desired.
  • Use grated Parmesan cheese, not powdered for the best flavor.
  • Add additional spicy cajun spice seasoning to make it even spicier.

 

cajun chicken frying in pan

 

How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta

This easy recipe for creamy chicken pasta is a family favorite and a huge hit with company too!

Here’s how to get your own homemade creamy cajun chicken pasta.

  1. Fry: Saute juicy chicken sprinkled with cajun in butter and oil.
  2. Cook: Remove the chicken and cook the noodles in broth, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add: Once most of the liquid is absorbed, add the cheese, heavy cream, onions, and chicken.

Pro Tips:

  • It’s a good idea to use a large pot so you only need to use one pot!
  • I prefer for the cook time to go until the pasta is al dente but you can cook longer if desired.
  • Got leftover chicken? Cut the chicken pieces, cover with the seasoning, and warm in the pan.

 

chicken broth, pasta, garlic, salt and pepper added to pot

 

What Pasta Goes Best with Cajun Chicken Pasta?

Angel hair pasta is the traditional choice for Cajun Chicken Pasta because of its delicate texture and ability to absorb the rich, creamy sauce. 

However, you can really use any type of tender pasta you prefer!

Here are some that I think pair well with the creamy pasta dish:

  • Fettuccine: This is flat and wider, more similar to a ribbon.
  • Linguine: Linguine is much thicker and flatter than angel hair pasta.
  • Spaghetti: This one we’re all pretty familiar with! It’s round and tubular like shape goes well with the sauce.

You could even use spaghetti squash as a low carb and gluten free option.

 

cooked noodles in the broth.

 

Can You Freeze Cajun Chicken Pasta?

While you can freeze Cajun Chicken Pasta, the quality of the dish may suffer when reheated. 

The pasta may become mushy, and the cajun cream sauce may separate. 

If you do decide to freeze leftovers, be sure to store them in an airtight container for up to three months. 

To reheat, thaw the pasta in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

 

parmesan, heavy cream and green onions added to cooked pasta

 

What Side Dish Goes with Cajun Chicken Pasta?

Cajun Chicken Pasta is a rich, satisfying dish, so it’s best paired with a light, refreshing side dish.

Some great options include a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, roasted or steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.

Here are some great recipes that pair well with pasta dishes to get you started:

 

pasta mixed up and ready to serve

 

How Spicy is Cajun Chicken Pasta?

This chicken pasta with creamy cajun sauce is known for its spicy kick, thanks to the cajun seasoning used in the recipe. 

The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your liking by adjusting the amount of cajun seasoning used. 

If you prefer a milder flavor, simply use less seasoning or a mild version of the seasoning.

 

zoomed out image of sliced chicken breast on a bed of creamy pasta

 

How to Store Leftover Cajun Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, it’s important to store them properly to ensure they stay fresh and safe to eat. 

Store leftovers of this easy pasta recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, you can use the microwave or reheat on the stovetop. 

If using the microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Reheat slowly using a little heat so you don’t burn or overcook the chicken or noodles.

 

side view of pasta on a plate with chicken breast

 

Is This the Same as Chili’s Cajun Chicken Pasta?

While many restaurants offer their own versions of cajun pasta, this recipe is not the same as Chili’s Cajun Chicken Pasta. 

Chili’s version typically includes blackened chicken, penne pasta, and a creamy alfredo sauce with a cajun seasoning blend. 

This recipe uses angel hair pasta, a cajun-seasoned chicken, and a creamy sauce made with chicken broth, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream.

I believe both are restaurant quality though! It’s just a little different comfort food!

 

zoomed in top view of chicken breast on a plate of pasta

 

Can Dogs Eat Cajun Chicken Pasta?

While dogs love to eat what we eat, it’s important to remember that certain foods can be harmful to them. 

This creamy cajun chicken pasta recipe contains ingredients that may not be safe for dogs to consume, such as garlic and onions, which can be toxic in large quantities. 

Additionally, the cajun seasoning may be too spicy for some dogs and cause gastrointestinal upset. 

It’s best to avoid feeding Cajun Chicken Pasta to your furry friend and stick to a diet specifically designed for dogs.

 

pasta with a sliced chicken breast on top. Fork scooping a bite up

 

The Best Pasta Recipes You’ll  Love…

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a one pot meal your whole family can enjoy! It’s perfect for busy weeknights and tastes delicious!

 

Yield: 4 Servings

One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

One Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Inactive Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 200*F
  2. In a large Dutch oven style pot, add butter and oil. Place pot over medium low heat and cook until butter is melted.
  3. While butter is melting, prepare chicken breasts. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over both sides of the chicken breasts.
  4. Once chicken is ready, add it to the pot. Cook for approximately 4 minutes on each side or until chicken is cooked through.
  5. Remove chicken and set on plate in oven to keep warm while pasta is cooking.
  6. In same pot, add chicken broth, pasta, garlic, salt & pepper.
  7. Cook according to pasta package directions, without a lid until pasta is cooked through and most of liquid is absorbed.
  8. Turn heat off and add Parmesan cheese, heavy cream & sliced onions. Mix well until cheese is melted. Sauce will thicken as it cools.
  9. Remove chicken from oven and add to pasta.
  10. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 721Total Fat: 46gSaturated Fat: 25gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 207mgSodium: 2674mgCarbohydrates: 22gFiber: 1gSugar: 3gProtein: 54g
Originally Posted: July 6, 2015

Photos & Text Updated: April 24, 2023

 

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John Eh

Saturday 26th of September 2015

I assume your #6 is not literal, as cooking instructions will include adding water? Prrhaps you meant for timing only?

Janelle

Saturday 26th of September 2015

Hi John. #6 is literal. You do NOT need to add water. If you do add water you'll turn your pasta into soup. The Chicken broth acts as your liquid in which the pasta cooks in. It adds more flavor to your pasta dish than water does and if you follow the steps as written you'll get what you see in the photo. Perfectly cooked and flavorful pasta! Enjoy!

Jessica (Savory Experiments)

Monday 13th of July 2015

One pot meals are essential to my week. I can't wait to try this one!

Diana Rambles

Monday 13th of July 2015

This looks delish!!

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