Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a bold and comforting dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen. Perfectly seasoned chicken is pan-seared until golden, then simmered in a rich, spiced cream sauce that clings deliciously to tender pasta. It’s a wonderful fusion of heat and smoothness, with Cajun seasoning lending smoky complexity while the creamy sauce provides a luscious contrast.

Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this dish transforms simple ingredients into something irresistibly satisfying. Every bite offers juicy chunks of chicken, silky noodles, and an explosion of spices mellowed by a buttery cream base. Whether you’re a spice lover or just crave something cozy with a kick, this pasta delivers on all fronts.

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Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

• 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

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Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken cubes with Cajun seasoning, ensuring all sides are evenly coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Sear for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

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Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.

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Step 4: Add Cheese and Adjust Seasoning

Stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Taste and season with salt and black pepper. If you like more heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

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Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated and the chicken is evenly distributed. Let it simmer for 2 more minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

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Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the creamy Cajun chicken pasta to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, spicy indulgence.

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Storage Instructions

To keep your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta fresh and delicious:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce.
• Freezer: You can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months, though the cream sauce may slightly separate upon thawing. To freeze, cool the dish completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating Tips: For best results, reheat on the stovetop rather than the microwave. Stir frequently and add a little liquid to bring the sauce back to life.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here is an approximate breakdown per serving (assuming 4 servings total):

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 140mg
• Sodium: 880mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on brands and portion sizes used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pasta works best for this dish?

Fettuccine, linguine, or penne are great choices because they hold the creamy sauce well.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes! Use less Cajun seasoning and skip the red pepper flakes to tone down the heat.

Can I substitute the cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream, but the sauce will be less rich.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut cream and a plant-based butter alternative, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan version.

What protein alternatives can I use?

Shrimp, sausage, or even tofu (for a vegetarian version) work wonderfully with the same seasoning.

How do I make my own Cajun seasoning?

Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, and black pepper in equal parts.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms complement the flavors beautifully.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Avoid boiling the sauce after adding cream, and keep the heat to a gentle simmer.

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