Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz linguine pasta; 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tsp olive oil; 1 1/2 to 2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided; 2 Tbsp unsalted butter; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2/3 cup diced tomatoes; 1 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 Tbsp parsley, finely chopped; Additional freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 48 reviews

If you are craving a dish that is bursting with flavor, creamy texture, and just the right touch of spice, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender strips of juicy chicken, perfectly seasoned with Cajun spices, all lovingly bathed in a rich and velvety garlic cream sauce, tossed together with al dente linguine. It is a brilliant weeknight dinner that delivers big on taste while taking less than 30 minutes to pull together. Once you try this recipe, it will undoubtedly become one of your go-to meals for those busy evenings when comfort food is a must without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows raw ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. On the top left, there is a white plate holding three large, light pink raw chicken pieces. Below it, another white plate carries a bundle of uncooked yellow spaghetti. To the right of the spaghetti is a medium glass bowl filled with smooth white cream. Above the cream, there is a small glass bowl with chopped red tomatoes, and beside it, another small glass bowl contains grated pale yellow cheese. Below the cheese, a small glass bowl holds a light brown spice mix, and next to it, a tiny glass bowl holds a square piece of yellow butter. At the bottom right, there is a small glass bowl with minced pale yellow garlic. The photo was taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What’s fantastic about this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each element plays a crucial role—from the fragrant garlic and spicy Cajun seasoning to the creamy heavy whipping cream and sharp parmesan, every component builds layers of flavor and texture that make this dish irresistible.

Linguine pasta (8 oz): Choose linguine for its perfect balance of texture and ability to hold the sauce beautifully.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts (2): Evenly beaten for uniform cooking and tender slices.
Olive oil (2 tsp): For searing the chicken to a golden perfection.
Unsalted butter (2 Tbsp): Adds richness and helps mellow the garlic flavor.
Cajun seasoning (1½ to 2 Tbsp): The heart of the dish—choose your favorite blend to control the spice level.
Garlic cloves (3, minced): Brings aromatic depth and savory warmth.
Diced tomatoes (2/3 cup): Adds a subtle tang and slight texture contrast.
Heavy whipping cream (1½ cup): Creates the luscious, creamy sauce that coats every bite.
Grated parmesan cheese (½ cup): Introduces a nutty, salty finish that enhances the creaminess.
Parsley (2 Tbsp, finely chopped): Freshens up the dish and adds a splash of vibrant green.

How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt seasons the pasta as it cooks, which is essential for flavor. Add your linguine and cook until it is just al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. Make sure to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before you drain it; this starchy water will help you loosen the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, prep your chicken breasts by pounding them to an even thickness, which guarantees they cook evenly. Generously season with 1½ tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken on both sides until you get a beautiful golden crust. Lower the heat and let it cook through gently until it reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F. Once cooked, slice the chicken thinly and keep it warm—this ensures it stays juicy and tender.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Cajun Sauce

Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant. This quick step releases that comforting garlic aroma that is irresistible. Add the diced tomatoes and sauté for another two minutes to meld the flavors. Pour in the heavy whipping cream, sprinkle in the remaining Cajun seasoning to taste, and stir in the parmesan cheese. Let everything come to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and become beautifully creamy.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Now the magic happens—add the sliced chicken and cooked linguine directly into the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is generously coated and the chicken warms back through. If the sauce feels too thick, gently stir in some of the reserved warm pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. This step is key to that silky texture that makes this pasta so indulgent.

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

The dish shows several layers of creamy fettuccine pasta mixed with sliced cooked chicken pieces. The pasta and chicken are coated in a thick, light beige sauce with a smooth texture. On top, there are thin strips of white cheese scattered evenly and small green herb bits, likely parsley, adding fresh color. The chicken slices are golden brown on the edges with a slight char, contrasting with the pale creamy pasta. The dish is set in a white bowl, with the background showing a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a pop of color and a hint of brightness that balances the creamy and spicy sauce beautifully. Sprinkle extra grated parmesan cheese on top just before serving to add a pleasant saltiness and a cheesy finish that your guests will love.

Side Dishes

This dish holds center stage, so side dishes should be simple. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or steamed broccoli are perfect accompaniments. Their freshness and crunch provide a nice contrast to the rich, creamy pasta, making the meal well-rounded and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a touch of elegance, serve this pasta in shallow bowls and garnish with a lemon wedge for an optional splash of citrus that enhances the Cajun spices. You can also plate it alongside garlic bread or crusty baguette slices to sop up the luscious sauce, creating an extra comforting dining experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe tastes wonderful the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 to 4 days. Keep the sauce and pasta together so the flavors marry even more overnight.

Freezing

While this dish is best freshly made, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Be mindful that the texture of the pasta may soften slightly upon reheating due to the cream sauce.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to prevent the sauce from thickening too much. Avoid microwaving at full power as it can cause the chicken to dry out and the sauce to separate.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While linguine is traditional here because of its flat shape that holds sauce nicely, you can swap it for fettuccine, penne, or even rotini. Just adjust cooking times to the pasta you choose.

Is Cajun seasoning very spicy?

The spiciness depends on the brand or homemade mix you use. You can control the heat by adjusting the amount. Start with less seasoning and add more to suit your palate—this recipe is very forgiving.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and use a vegan parmesan cheese substitute. Keep in mind this will change the flavor profile somewhat but still create a creamy texture.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

Minced garlic from a jar works in a pinch, but fresh garlic definitely adds a brighter, more potent flavor that really shines in this dish. If using jarred, use slightly less as it tends to be more concentrated.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165˚F. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part to ensure the juices run clear and there is no pink remaining.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making and eating this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe as much as I do. It’s such a quick, straightforward dinner that feels indulgent and comforting, perfect for turning any ordinary night into a delicious occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the seasoning levels and sides to make it your own. Happy cooking and even happier eating!