Delicious Cajun Chicken Pasta with Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Growing up in a family that loved bold flavors, Cajun Chicken Pasta quickly became a comfort food staple. My grandmother, although firmly rooted in traditional Italian cooking, had a secret fondness for the smoky, spicy notes of Cajun cuisine. On special nights, she’d pull out a heavy cast-iron skillet, sprinkle her own spice blend with a wink, and whip up a hearty Cajun pasta that filled the house with irresistible aromas.

Today, I’m thrilled to share my own modern take creamy, buttery, with a punch of Parmesan and tender Cajun-spiced chicken a perfect marriage of Southern comfort and rich, decadent sauces.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner for two or feeding a family of six, this Cajun Chicken Pasta is guaranteed to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Easy to Make: Done in under 45 minutes.
• Flexible Servings: Scale up or down for 2 to 6 people.
• Seasonless: Perfect for a hearty winter meal or a lively summer dinner.
• Packed with Flavor: Spicy Cajun chicken, rich garlic butter, and nutty Parmesan.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less mess, more magic.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra smokiness)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms
• 1/2 cup baby spinach

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Large pot (for pasta)
• Tongs
• Whisk
• Cutting board and knife

How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. Rub Cajun seasoning generously on both sides.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F).
5. Remove the chicken and let it rest; then slice thinly.

Tip: Tent the chicken loosely with foil while resting to keep it juicy!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
3. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water; then drain the pasta.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Whisk until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
5. Add smoked paprika, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Assemble

1. Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce.
2. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to thin out the sauce.
3. Add sliced Cajun chicken on top.
4. Sprinkle with parsley and more Parmesan before serving.

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Variations to Try

• Cajun Shrimp Pasta: Substitute shrimp for chicken for a seafood twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and toss in grilled vegetables or tofu.
• Extra Creamy: Stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese for added richness.
• Spicy Kick: Add an extra pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning.

Tips for the Best Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Use Fresh Parmesan: It melts better and gives a richer taste.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep it slightly firm; it will continue to absorb the sauce.
• Customize the Heat: Control the spice level by adjusting Cajun seasoning or crushed red pepper.

Pairing Suggestions

Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully.

Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or simple arugula salad balances the richness.

Bread: Serve with homemade garlic bread or crusty French baguette for that extra comfort food touch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead, then cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve for the best texture.

How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add a splash of cream or broth when reheating.

Can I freeze Cajun Chicken Pasta?
Freezing is possible, but not ideal, due to the creamy sauce separating upon thawing.

This Cajun Chicken Pasta with Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is a symphony of bold, savory flavors, buttery richness, and comforting warmth. It’s a dish that feels special enough for a date night but easy enough for a busy weeknight. I hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine!

If you make this recipe, let me know how it turned out! Drop a comment, snap a picture, and tag me. I’d love to see your delicious creations. 💛