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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta (Easy & Flavor-Packed)

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta (Easy & Flavor-Packed)
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This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is rich, bold, and comforting, with tender chicken coated in Cajun spices and tossed in a silky Parmesan cream sauce. It’s quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests—ready in just 30 minutes and guaranteed to satisfy.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pasta & Sauce

  • 8 ounces penne or fettuccine pasta

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ cup chicken broth

  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (more to taste)

  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

  • Season the Chicken: Toss chicken with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

  • Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5–7 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

  • Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook 3–4 minutes, stirring, until slightly thickened.

  • Combine: Add pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen the sauce.

  • Season & Serve: Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Customize the Heat: Cajun seasoning varies—start light and add more to taste.

  • Extra Creamy: Add a splash more cream or a bit of cream cheese.

  • Protein Swap: Shrimp or smoked sausage work great.

  • Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.

  • Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

  • Cheesier Finish: Stir in more Parmesan right before serving.

Find it online: https://chocotune.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-pasta-easy-flavor-packed/