Spice up your dinner rotation with this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. This dish is a vibrant celebration of bold flavors, bringing the heat of New Orleans style cooking right into your kitchen. It features blackened chicken strips and crisp bell peppers tossed in a rich, spicy parmesan cream sauce. It perfectly balances the fiery kick of Cajun spices with the cooling, velvety texture of heavy cream, creating a meal that is exciting, colorful, and incredibly satisfying.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
A Flavor Explosion
This is not your average bland weeknight dinner. Every bite is packed with flavor, from the smoky paprika and cayenne on the chicken to the savory garlic and onion in the sauce. The peppers add a nice crunch and sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spice. It is a dish that wakes up your palate and keeps you interested from the first bite to the last.
Restaurant Style at Home
If you love ordering Cajun pasta at restaurants like Chili’s or TGI Fridays, you will be amazed at how easy it is to recreate at home. Homemade Cajun pasta is fresher, lighter, and customizable. You can control exactly how much heat goes into the dish, making it perfect for your specific spice tolerance. Plus, it comes together in under 40 minutes.
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- skillet
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine
- 1 lb chicken breast, strips
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 bell pepper sliced
Instructions
- Cook pasta.
- Coat chicken in spice. Sear.
- Sauté peppers. Add cream. Simmer.
- Combine all.
Notes
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Cajun Seasoning is the star here—a blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic, onion, and herbs. Heavy Cream provides the rich base that cools the spice. Chicken Breasts are sliced and coated in the seasoning for a blackened effect. Bell Peppers (red and green) and Red Onion add color and texture. Parmesan Cheese adds a salty finish.
Smart Substitutions
If you can’t find Cajun seasoning, Creole seasoning is a close substitute. You can also make your own blend easily. Shrimp is a fantastic alternative or addition to the chicken. For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half, but be careful not to boil it too hard.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Slice your chicken, peppers, and onions into strips. Coat the chicken generously in Cajun seasoning. Start your pasta water.
Cooking Phase
Cook the pasta. Sear the chicken in a hot skillet until blackened and cooked. Remove. Sauté the peppers and onions until soft. Add garlic. Pour in the cream and extra Cajun spice. Simmer until thick. Stir in parmesan. Toss everything together.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Get your pan hot for the chicken to get that authentic “blackened” sear. Don’t overcook the peppers; you want them to have a little crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Be careful with salt. Cajun blends are often salty, so taste before adding extra salt to the sauce.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Pile high in bowls and garnish with green onions.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve with Vegetable Soup Recipe Seriously The Best to start the meal with some veggies.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
| Calories | 720 | 36% |
| Protein | 42g | 84% |
| Carbohydrates | 50g | 17% |
| Fat | 40g | 60% |
| Saturated Fat | 22g | 110% |
| Cholesterol | 165mg | 55% |
| Sodium | 1150mg | 48% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it very spicy?
It depends on the seasoning blend. Adjust cayenne to taste.
Can I use sausage?
Yes, Andouille sausage is a classic addition.
Best pasta shape?
Fettuccine or penne work best.
Conclusion
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect way to add some excitement to your dinner table. Bold, creamy, and delicious.
