There’s something about a dish that wraps you in warmth and bold flavors after a long day. Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is exactly that kind of dinner—comforting, spicy, and creamy all at once. It’s the kind of meal that fills the house with inviting aromas and promises a satisfying end to your day.

Last week, after a hectic afternoon, I finally sat down with this creamy Cajun chicken pasta. The first bite hit my tongue with a perfect balance of spice and richness. The tender chicken pieces, coated in Cajun seasoning, offered a smoky kick that danced alongside the smooth cream sauce. The vibrant bell peppers added a subtle sweetness and a tender crunch that contrasted beautifully with the silky pasta. It wasn’t just dinner; it was a moment to breathe, savor, and enjoy something made with simple ingredients yet bursting with flavor. That evening felt a little less rushed, a little more indulgent, all thanks to this dish.

One-pan meal means less cleanup and more time to relax.
Rich, creamy sauce balanced with bold Cajun spices offers complex flavor without fuss.
Tender chicken and fresh vegetables create a satisfying, hearty dish.
Ready in just over half an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
Comfort food that feels special without needing special skills.

If you’re worried about spice, the Cajun seasoning can be adjusted to taste, making this dish friendly for all heat tolerances. Plus, leftovers reheat beautifully, keeping that creamy texture intact.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4

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Description

A deliciously creamy and spicy Cajun chicken pasta made with tender chicken breasts, a rich cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

12 ounces penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the sliced red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and onion. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely, feel free to swap the penne for fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.

Is there a way to make this dairy-free? You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the richness without dairy.

How spicy is this dish? The Cajun seasoning provides a moderate heat, but you can easily adjust the amount to suit your preference.

Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, you can cook everything separately and combine before serving, or reheat leftovers gently on the stove.

Give this creamy Cajun chicken pasta a try tonight and enjoy a dinner that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. Save this recipe for when you crave something cozy and vibrant.