Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe

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Looking for something bold, creamy, and satisfying? This Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta recipe hits every note with its spicy kick, velvety sauce, and tender chicken. It’s the perfect comfort dish when you’re short on time but craving maximum flavor. The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, zesty character that clings to every strand of pasta, while the cream smooths it all into a luscious finish.

Golden-seared chicken chunks bring a hearty bite, balancing beautifully with the rich sauce. Whether you’re planning a midweek dinner or spicing up your weekend meal rotation, this dish delivers restaurant-level satisfaction with everyday ingredients. Pair it with a crisp salad or garlic bread and you’re all set.

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Ingredients for this Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 oz fettuccine or linguine
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

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Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to lift the flavorful bits. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Serve

Return the seared chicken to the skillet and mix well with the pasta. Let it heat through for 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the fettuccine with penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti—whatever you have on hand. Just aim for pasta that holds onto sauce well.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The heat level depends on your Cajun seasoning. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with 1 tablespoon and add more to taste.

Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?

Absolutely. Shrimp cooks faster, so sauté it for just 1-2 minutes per side and add it back in at the end.

What can I serve with this pasta?

Try a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies to round out the meal.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Swap the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or skip the cheese entirely.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead, but it’s best to make the sauce fresh. Reheat the chicken and pasta in the sauce when ready to serve.

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