Description
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta combines rich flavors with a satisfying texture. The spicy notes of Cajun seasoning blend perfectly with tender chicken and creamy pasta, creating a culinary experience that will leave your taste buds dancing. This dish is perfect for family, friends, or a quiet night in.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz. fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups spinach (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and allow to rest before slicing.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well until the sauce is creamy. If it’s too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Combine Everything: Add the pasta, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, and spinach (if using) to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine, allowing the spinach to wilt slightly.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor in your creamy Cajun chicken pasta.
- Adjust the spice level of the creamy Cajun chicken pasta by reducing or increasing the Cajun seasoning.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Stir the sauce continuously to prevent sticking and burning.
- For a seafood twist, swap chicken for shrimp in this creamy Cajun chicken pasta recipe.
- Consider adding more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a vegetarian creamy Cajun pasta.
- This creamy Cajun chicken pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: Not specified
- Sodium: Not specified
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: Not specified
- Unsaturated Fat: Not specified
- Trans Fat: Not specified
- Carbohydrates: Not specified
- Fiber: Not specified
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: Not specified