Last week, I decided to recreate one of my favorite go-to dish copycat Chilis Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe. You know that feeling when you take a bite and it feels like you’re back at the restaurant? That happened!
The creamy pasta, bold spices, and juicy chicken made the whole kitchen smell fantastic. It was such a hit with my family that they asked me to make it again the same week! Let me show you how simple it is to bring this restaurant-quality meal to your own table.
For a fun appetizer to pair with this dish, you might enjoy this Charleston Cheese Dip recipe.
Ingredients for Copycat Chilis Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Here’s everything you need to nail this hearty and flavorful dish. A little attention to details like freshness can make all the difference.
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender and easy-to-cook protein.
- Cajun seasoning: The soul of this dish! Use a good-quality blend or make your own for customizable heat.
- Butter (unsalted): Adds richness to the sauce and cooks the chicken to golden perfection.
- Heavy cream: This gives the sauce its signature creamy texture. Avoid substitutes like milk for the best results.
- Lemon pepper seasoning: Balances the smoky spice with a zesty citrus kick.
- Salt and black pepper: Enhances and ties together the flavors.
- Garlic powder: Brings a subtle, savory depth to the sauce without overpowering it.
- Penne pasta: Its tubular shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully. Cook al dente for a satisfying chew.
- Roma tomatoes: Diced for freshness and a pop of color.
- Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Never skimp here; fresh Parmesan melts beautifully and adds nutty richness.
Note: This recipe serves four portions, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week!
Variations to Try
Whether you’re adjusting for dietary needs or looking to mix up the flavor, here are some variations to make this dish your own:
- Dairy-free: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or an oat-based alternative. Use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
- Gluten-free: Swap regular penne for gluten-free pasta without compromising texture.
- Extra veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for more color and nutrients.
- Seafood twist: Replace chicken with shrimp or even a mix of seafood for a fresh alternative.
For another comforting dinner idea, you might want to try this Chicken and Peppers in White Sauce recipe.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long your culinary masterpiece will take:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment You Need
You don’t need fancy tools to nail this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large skillet: Perfect for cooking the seasoned chicken and ensuring even browning.
- Medium saucepan: Ideal for whisking up the creamy sauce to indulgent perfection.
- Pasta pot: For boiling your penne to tender, al dente goodness.
- Tongs: Helps flip the chicken evenly while cooking.
- Cutting board and knife: For slicing chicken and dicing fresh tomatoes.
How to Make Copycat Chili’s Cajun Chicken Pasta
Bringing this dish from stovetop to plate is simpler than you think! Each step adds layers of flavor and texture that come together beautifully.
Preparing the Chicken
Start by rinsing your chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry. Toss them in a resealable bag with the Cajun seasoning, ensuring they are generously coated. Set them aside while your skillet heats up.
Cooking the Chicken
Melt two tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the seasoned chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side or until fully cooked. The golden-brown crust locks in the juices, making every bite tender and flavorful. Remove the chicken and rest it while we prepare the pasta and sauce.
Preparing the Sauce
While the chicken rests, start the sauce. Melt the remaining butter in a saucepan and pour in the heavy cream. Add salt, black pepper, lemon pepper seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir continuously until the mix begins to bubble gently. This is when all the flavors blend into a luscious, creamy base.
Combining Sauce and Pasta
Once your pasta is cooked and drained, stir it directly into the cream sauce. Toss well so the penne soaks up every bit of flavor.
Slicing and Serving
Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips, then plate it over the pasta. Top with diced Roma tomatoes and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For an extra kick, you can dust a little Cajun spice over the dish before serving.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
Here are a few things I learned along the way:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting consistency.
- If your sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up.
- For even more richness, whisk in a small amount of cream cheese.
- Want bolder spice? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to your Cajun seasoning.
- Trust me, serving this with some garlic bread or a side salad takes the meal to the next level.
How to Serve Copycat Chili’s Cajun Chicken Pasta
Presentation matters! Serve the pasta in a shallow bowl or plate, piling the chicken slices artfully on top. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a restaurant-worthy look. Pair with crunchy garlic bread and a crisp side salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick snapshot of what you can expect nutritionally:
- Calories: Approximately 745 per serving
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 57g
Make Ahead and Storage
If you’ve got leftovers or want to plan ahead, here’s what you need to know:
- Storing: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Store the chicken and pasta separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for best results. Add a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce smooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cajun chicken pasta is an instant favorite for so many reasons:
- Easy to make: You don’t need to be a pro chef to whip this up.
- Flavor-packed: The Cajun spices, creamy sauce, and fresh toppings satisfy every craving.
- Customizable: Adapt it to your diet or add your favorite extras without any fuss.
- Restaurant-quality at home: Save money while recreating this classic right in your kitchen.
- Family-approved: Even the pickiest eaters will love this one!
If you’re a fan of hearty meals, you can also enjoy similar recipes like these dinner recipes.
FAQs
What type of Cajun seasoning should I use?
Most store-bought Cajun blends work great, but you can make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken and make the sauce up to 2 days ahead. Store separately and combine when ready to serve.
Why is my sauce too thin?
This may happen if the sauce hasn’t reduced enough. Simmer it a bit longer, or mix in a small amount of cornstarch diluted in water.
Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! Fettuccine, linguine, or even bowtie pasta would also work beautifully.
How do I make it extra creamy?
Adding 2 ounces of cream cheese during the sauce preparation makes it ultra-luxurious.