Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe | A 30-Minute, Easy Pasta Recipe!

If you're in search of a delectable dinner that can be whipped up in no time, look no further than this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Combining tender chicken, a creamy sauce, and zesty Cajun spices, it delivers a satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

To prepare this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, you'll need the following ingredients:

12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine works well)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 lb chicken breast (boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

Salt and black pepper (to taste)

1 medium onion (diced)

3 cloves garlic (minced)

1 red bell pepper (sliced)

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

4. Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.

5. Combine Pasta and Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

6. Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Serve the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta hot, and enjoy the rich, flavorful meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes!

Tips and Variations

Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the pasta for added nutrition and flavor.

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your taste. For a milder dish, use less seasoning or opt for a mild Cajun blend.

Protein: This recipe works well with other proteins like shrimp or sausage. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a fantastic go-to recipe for a quick and easy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The creamy sauce combined with the bold Cajun spices creates a comforting dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can prepare a delicious, restaurant-quality dinner in just 30 minutes. Enjoy!