Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: Comfort Food in 30 Minutes

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that combines bold spices and creamy textures for a comforting dish.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American, Cajun

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Chicken thighs are a flavorful alternative.
2 tablespoons Olive Oil For cooking the chicken.
2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Key flavoring agent.
to taste Salt and Pepper Essential seasonings.

For the Pasta

8 ounces Pasta (Penne, Fettuccine, or Spaghetti) Choose according to preference.

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds richness to the sauce.
2 cloves Garlic Freshly minced.
1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika Compliments the Cajun spices.
1 cup Heavy Cream Forms the creamy base.
1/2 cup Chicken Broth Thins the sauce.
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Enhances umami flavor.

For Garnish

1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley Optional garnish.

Optional Add-ins

to taste Red Pepper Flakes For extra heat.
1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice Adds brightness.
1 cup Sautéed Vegetables Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.

Equipment

large skillet
large pot
measuring cups
measuring spoons
cutting board
knife

Method

Cooking Instructions

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F). Remove and let rest.
Bring salted water to a boil in a pot. Cook pasta according to package instructions (8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
In the same skillet, melt butter. Sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes. Add Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Simmer for 4-5 minutes to thicken.
Mix in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add the drained pasta and adjust with reserved pasta water if too thick. Incorporate sliced chicken and toss to combine.
Garnish with parsley and optionally sprinkle more Parmesan on top. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Freezing is possible in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove.

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