If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish packed with bold Southern flavor, this Rustic Cajun-Spiced Chicken Pasta delivers the perfect balance of smoky spice and creamy richness. Tender Cajun-seasoned chicken is seared to golden perfection, then tossed with pasta in a silky garlic cream sauce that clings to every bite. It’s a restaurant-quality meal made easily at home — perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
⭐ Yield
4 servings
⏱ Prep Time
15 minutes
⏱ Cook Time
25 minutes
⏱ Total Time
40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta & Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional but recommended)
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Fresh cracked black pepper
Instructions
1️⃣ 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 of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Season the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the sliced chicken with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3️⃣ Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4️⃣ Build the Flavor Base
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5️⃣ Make the Velvety Cream Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
6️⃣ Add Vegetables (Optional)
Stir in cherry tomatoes and spinach. Cook for 1–2 minutes until spinach wilts and tomatoes soften.
7️⃣ Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Simmer for another 1–2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and cracked black pepper. Pair with:
- garlic bread
- a crisp green salad
- roasted vegetables
- or a glass of chilled white wine
Tips for the Best Cajun Chicken Pasta
✔ Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
✔ Adjust Cajun seasoning to control spice level.
✔ Don’t overcook the chicken — it should stay juicy.
✔ Reserve pasta water to achieve the perfect silky texture.
Variations & Substitutions
Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
Add seafood: Shrimp pairs beautifully with Cajun flavors.
Extra smoky flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce.
Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth.
Freeze: Not recommended due to the cream sauce texture.
This Rustic Cajun Chicken Pasta is creamy, bold, and irresistibly comforting — the perfect dish when you want something hearty with a touch of Southern spice.