06/09/2026
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta (Serves 4-6)
Ingredients
For the chicken and pasta:
* 8-12 oz linguine, fettuccine, or penne pasta
* 1-1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into strips or bite-sized pieces
* 2-3 Tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
* 2 Tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking chicken)
* Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the sauce and veggies:
* 2 Tbsp butter
* 1 red bell pepper, sliced
* ½ yellow onion, diced
* 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
* 4-8 oz mushrooms, sliced (optional)
* 1-2/3 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned fire-roasted, drained)
* 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
* ½-¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
* ¼ tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning (optional)
Homemade Cajun seasoning (mix together, makes extra):
* 2 tsp smoked paprika
* 1 tsp each: garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme
* ½-1 tsp cayenne (adjust for spice)
* ½ tsp black pepper
* ½ tsp salt
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
2. Season and cook chicken: Pat chicken dry. Toss with 1-2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat oil/butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temp), about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside. Slice if in larger pieces.
3. Sauté veggies: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add bell peppers, onion, and mushrooms (if using). Cook 3-5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Stir in diced tomatoes and cook another 1-2 minutes.
4. Make the sauce: Pour in heavy cream. Add remaining Cajun seasoning (to taste), Parmesan, and any extra herbs. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly (3-5 minutes). Taste and adjust seasoning—add reserved pasta water if too thick.
5. Combine and serve: Add cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce. Heat through 1-2 minutes. Garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, or green onions. Serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad.
