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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

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This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the ultimate one-pan pasta dinner — loaded with spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken, tossed in a rich, velvety cream sauce, and served over tender pasta. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight meal or make-ahead lunch.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for about 30 seconds. Add chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Return chicken to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat with the sauce. Add a splash of pasta water or broth if needed to thin the sauce.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes.

Notes

  • For added veggies, sauté bell peppers or spinach with the garlic.
  • Substitute shrimp for chicken for a Cajun seafood twist.
  • Use coconut milk and omit Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to maintain creaminess.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-pasta/