Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta features tender chicken coated in smoky spices, tossed with bell peppers and pasta in a rich garlic-parmesan cream sauce. A bold, comforting dish with a Southern twist.
1 lb chicken breast or thighs, sliced
2–3 tbsp Cajun seasoning
12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, etc.)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated parmesan
2 tbsp cream cheese (optional)
Salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (to taste)
Chopped parsley, for garnish
Cook pasta in salted water; drain and set aside. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
Toss chicken with Cajun seasoning and sauté in olive oil until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In same skillet, melt butter and sauté bell peppers for 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add cream, broth, and Cajun seasoning. Simmer 3–4 minutes, then stir in parmesan and cream cheese.
Return chicken and pasta to skillet. Toss to coat and heat through. Add pasta water if needed.
Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Adjust spice level by controlling Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes.
Swap chicken for shrimp or sausage for variation.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as needed.