Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta hit all the right notes it’s hearty, flavorful, and so simple to prepare. It’s now one of our go-to pasta dinners, and I’m thrilled to share it with you!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning plus more for garnish
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika optional, for extra smoky flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
Season and Cook the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss the chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional Cajun seasoning if needed.
Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the pasta to serving bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!