Do Share Recipe

Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe | Spicy, Rich & Comforting Meal

I recently tried making this creamy Cajun pasta recipe, and I have to say, it blew me away. The chicken is tender and juicy, coated in a rich, flavorful Cajun cream sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta.

I love how quick and simple it is, yet it tastes so indulgent that it feels like a restaurant dish. If you enjoy chicken recipes, you might also like this Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe.

Pair it with a slice of fresh focaccia bread or a crisp Caesar salad, and you’ve got a dinner that everyone will rave about. Trust me, this is my new go-to weeknight comfort meal.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious creamy Cajun pasta. Each ingredient brings its own magic to the dish:

Pasta – 12 oz linguine (or any pasta of your choice: fettuccine, angel hair, penne, bow tie, elbow). I love linguine because it holds the sauce beautifully.
Chicken – 2 large chicken breasts (chicken thighs work well too for extra juiciness).
Cajun Seasoning – 2 tablespoons (store-bought or homemade; adjust for spiciness). Add salt and pepper to taste.
Garlic – 3 cloves, freshly minced (fresh garlic gives a punchy flavor, but 1 tsp dried works in a pinch).
Butter – 2 tablespoons (for sautéing garlic and enriching the sauce).
Heavy Whipping Cream – 1 cup (makes the sauce silky and indulgent).
Parmesan – ½ cup freshly grated (freshly grated melts better and adds a nutty depth).

Note: Serves 4–6 people generously.

Variations

If you like to mix things up or have dietary preferences, here are some ideas:

Vegetables – Add cooked broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers to boost nutrition and texture.
Vegetarian – Skip the chicken and use mushrooms or tofu instead.
Protein Alternatives – Swap chicken with sliced sausage, kielbasa, or shrimp for a seafood twist. You can also explore dishes like Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Salmon Recipe for another creamy seafood option.
Lighter Version – Use half-and-half or light cream to cut calories; the sauce will be slightly thinner but still delicious.

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick snapshot of the timing:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large pot – for boiling the pasta until al dente.
Deep skillet – to cook the chicken and create the creamy sauce.
Knife & cutting board – for prepping chicken and garlic.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – to stir the sauce without scratching your pan.
Cheese grater – for grating fresh Parmesan.

How to Make Creamy Cajun Pasta

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente. I always taste a strand to make sure it’s perfectly firm. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Prepare the Chicken

Flatten the chicken breasts to even thickness using a meat mallet or the bottom of a pan. Season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté in a skillet with a bit of oil until golden brown and fully cooked, then slice into strips.

Make the Sauce

In a deep skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Add diced tomatoes (optional) and cook for 2 minutes. Pour in the cream, sprinkle in remaining Cajun seasoning, and stir in Parmesan. Let the sauce simmer gently.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece in creamy goodness. Make sure the pasta absorbs some of the sauce for maximum flavor.

Serve

Transfer to a serving dish and top with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley. A slice of crusty bread on the side helps soak up every bit of that luscious sauce.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

I like to let the sauce simmer just a little longer to thicken and intensify the flavors.
Taste and adjust the Cajun seasoning—sometimes I add a pinch more for a spicy kick.
Use fresh Parmesan instead of pre-shredded for a creamier sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, a splash of pasta water works wonders.
Rest the chicken for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Pasta

This dish shines when served fresh and warm. I love placing it in a shallow bowl to show off the sauce and pasta. Sprinkle extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for a vibrant finish. Pair it with a Caesar salad or steamed veggies, and maybe a glass of crisp white wine for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough idea per serving (serves 4):

Calories: 550–600 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 28 g

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigerating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to maintain creaminess.

Freezing

I usually don’t freeze pasta with cream sauce because it can separate, but you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

Reheating

Warm over low heat and add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s silky texture. Stir constantly to prevent curdling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re wondering why this pasta recipe stands out, here are my top reasons:

Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
Flavorful – The creamy Cajun sauce delivers bold, spicy, and savory flavors.
Versatile – Works with chicken, shrimp, sausage, or vegetarian options.
Crowd-Pleaser – Delicious and comforting, everyone will ask for seconds.
Customizable – Adjust the spiciness, creaminess, and veggies to your taste.

This creamy Cajun pasta has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and that rich, flavorful sauce is irresistible. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to weeknight dinners too.

Ben Carraoli