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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Indulgent Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Ready in 30 Minutes

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, peppers, and a rich sauce in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lbs boneless, skinless chicken fillets Substitute with shrimp or sausage if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste for desired spice level.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Consider plant-based version for vegan diets.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Vegetable broth may be used for vegetarian alternative.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup red bell pepper Feel free to substitute with mushrooms or spinach.
  • 1 cup green bell pepper Feel free to substitute with mushrooms or spinach.
  • 1 small onion Shallots can be used instead.
  • 2 cloves garlic Fresh garlic is best for flavor.
For the Pasta
  • 12 oz penne pasta Any short pasta can be substituted, including gluten-free options.
Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Can use vegetable oil if preferred.
  • to taste salt Essential for balancing flavors.
  • to taste pepper Essential for balancing flavors.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the penne pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, about 9–10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to allow any remaining water to evaporate.
  2. While the pasta cooks, rub Cajun seasoning on both sides of the boneless, skinless chicken fillets. Set the seasoned chicken aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the seasoned chicken fillets. Cook for about 6–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove chicken and let it rest before slicing.
  4. In the same skillet, add sliced onion and bell peppers over medium heat. Sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
  5. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.
  6. Once thickened, reintroduce the sliced chicken and drained pasta back into the skillet. Toss together gently to ensure everything is well-coated with the sauce. Adjust with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk for best texture.

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