Spicy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine

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When you crave comfort food with a bold kick, Spicy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine is the answer. Creamy, spicy, and satisfyingly rich, this pasta dish pairs golden-crusted Cajun chicken with silky fettuccine noodles, all coated in a luxurious garlic parmesan cream sauce. The warmth of the spices, combined with the creamy base, delivers a flavor-packed experience that balances heat with indulgence.

This dish is a favorite for weeknight dinners and impressive enough for guests. It’s a one-plate wonder—hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to bring people to the table fast. With pantry staples and a dash of Cajun flair, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe, as they cook evenly and can be sliced thin for perfect serving portions. Thighs can be used too if you prefer juicier, darker meat. The key is to coat the chicken generously with Cajun seasoning and sear it until you get that crave-worthy crust.

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Ingredients for the Spicy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine

Chicken Breasts – A lean, protein-packed base that gets seasoned and seared for texture and bold flavor.

Cajun Seasoning – Brings the spice and character. It’s the signature blend that sets this dish apart.

Fettuccine Pasta – Ideal for clinging to the creamy sauce, creating rich bites every time.

Heavy Cream – The foundation of the sauce, adding smoothness and richness.

Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated for flavor depth and a slight salty edge.

Garlic – Essential for aromatics; it infuses the sauce with savory warmth.

Butter – Used to sauté and enrich the sauce with a silky finish.

Olive Oil – Helps sear the chicken to a golden crust while keeping it juicy inside.

Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings to balance and enhance flavors.

Parsley – For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.

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How To Make the Spicy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and coat both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and beautifully golden. Remove from pan and let rest.

Step 2: Cook the Fettuccine

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Build the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in grated parmesan and mix until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the drained fettuccine into the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen if needed. Stir to coat evenly.

Step 5: Slice Chicken and Assemble

Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips. Plate the pasta and top with sliced chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a pinch of extra Cajun seasoning if desired.

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How to Serve and Store This Spicy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine

Serve this dish hot, right after the creamy sauce hugs the fettuccine. A sprinkle of parmesan or red chili flakes amps up flavor for spice lovers. It pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread on the side.

For storage, transfer leftovers into an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes, simply reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. You can also add extra cream to mellow the heat.

What if I don’t have fettuccine?

Linguine or tagliatelle are great alternatives. Even penne or rigatoni work if you prefer short pasta.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

You can, though fresh-seared chicken gives a better crust and more flavor. If using leftovers, just slice and warm before serving.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer a bit longer, or stir in extra parmesan. If needed, a teaspoon of flour can help tighten the texture.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It can be frozen, but the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. If freezing, store chicken and pasta separately for best results.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make delicious additions to bulk up the dish.

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Want More Spicy Pasta Ideas?

You might also like the One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta for a hearty, beefy twist. Or try Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta, a dish that blends heat with creamy cheese.

Looking for a cozy one-pot option? The One-Pan Spicy BBQ Chicken Cheeseburger Pasta brings big flavor with minimal cleanup.

For something quick but bold, the Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli might be exactly what your weeknight needs. And don’t miss the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for another comforting classic.

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If you give it a try, let me know! Did you spice it up even more? Add mushrooms or spinach? Share your twist in the comments—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you.

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