Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of bold spices, cheesy richness, and satisfying comfort. Picture this: tender slices of Cajun-spiced chicken breast, seared to perfection with a slightly smoky char, paired with creamy penne pasta tossed in a silky, garlicky cheese sauce made with Parmesan and mozzarella. It’s a dish that delivers both heat and harmony—ideal for cozy dinners or when you’re craving something indulgent yet easy to make.

The contrast between the spicy chicken and the creamy pasta creates a flavor-packed bite every time. The Cajun seasoning brings warmth without overwhelming the senses, while the melted cheese and cream sauce cool things down in the most delicious way. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a restaurant-quality dish, but with a home-cooked heart. Whether you’re making it for guests, family, or just treating yourself—this pasta is guaranteed to please.

---

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

• It’s a flavor bomb – Savory, spicy, creamy, cheesy, and just a touch garlicky.
• Fast and satisfying – Great for a weeknight dinner that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
• Perfect texture contrast – Juicy chicken and al dente pasta in velvety sauce.
• Customizable – You can adjust the spice level, add veggies, or swap cheeses.
• Restaurant-style at home – Impress anyone with minimal effort!

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

(Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each)

Before diving into this spicy, creamy masterpiece, having the right tools will make the entire cooking process smoother and more enjoyable:

• Cast Iron or Heavy Skillet: This is crucial for searing the chicken. A heavy-bottomed skillet retains heat well and gives you that golden, flavorful crust on the chicken.
• Large Saucepan or Pot: You’ll need a big enough pot to boil the pasta evenly without sticking or clumping.
• Colander: For draining the pasta quickly and cleanly.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: To slice the cooked chicken into neat, juicy strips.
• Cutting Board: Preferably one for raw meats and another for cooked food to avoid cross-contamination.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the sauce without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accuracy matters when balancing Cajun spice and creamy flavors.
• Whisk: Helps blend the cream, cheese, and seasoning smoothly for a lump-free sauce.

Each of these tools ensures even cooking, precise flavor, and a stress-free cleanup. Don’t skip them if you want the perfect texture and taste.

---

Preparation Tips

• Pat your chicken dry before seasoning and searing — this helps you get that golden-brown crust instead of steaming it.
• Salt your pasta water like the sea – this is your only chance to season the pasta itself.
• Undercook pasta by 1 minute and finish it in the sauce. It soaks up all that creamy, garlicky goodness.
• Let the chicken rest after cooking for 5 minutes before slicing. It locks in the juices.
• Use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded. It melts smoother and tastes better in the sauce.
• Don’t overdo the Cajun spice unless you know you want the heat — it can quickly overpower the creaminess.

---

Ingredients for This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Here’s everything you need to bring this rich, spicy, and creamy dish to life. Each ingredient plays a vital role in flavor, texture, or aroma—so try not to skip anything:

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz penne pasta (or your preferred short pasta)
• Water + salt (for boiling)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional, for added spice)
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• Crushed red pepper flakes (if you like it spicier)
• A squeeze of lemon juice (for a little brightness)
• Cooked spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth

---

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
Transfer to a plate and let it rest while you make the pasta and sauce.

---

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
Add the penne pasta and cook until just al dente (1 minute less than package instructions).
Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

---

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken (don’t wipe it clean!), melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream, whisking to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
Lower the heat and stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
Add a pinch of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water.

---

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked penne directly into the sauce, stirring well to coat each piece.
Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to absorb flavor. If needed, add more pasta water to loosen the sauce.

---

Step 5: Slice and Serve the Chicken

Slice the rested Cajun chicken into strips.
Plate the creamy pasta and top with sliced chicken.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and (optional) red pepper flakes or lemon juice. Serve immediately.

---

Notes

• Homemade Cajun seasoning can give you better control over spice and salt levels. Consider mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
• Don’t overcook the chicken — dry chicken ruins the dish. Use a thermometer and aim for 165°F (74°C).
• Reserve pasta water — this starchy water is a secret weapon for thickening or loosening the sauce without watering down the flavor.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using pre-shredded cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always use freshly grated cheese for a creamy sauce.
• Skipping the resting time for chicken: Cutting it too soon causes juices to run out, leaving dry meat.
• Overcooking pasta: Mushy pasta won’t hold up in a creamy sauce. Aim for just under al dente since it’ll cook slightly more in the sauce.
• Forgetting to taste the sauce: Adjust salt and Cajun seasoning at the end—flavors develop as it simmers.
• Too much Cajun spice too early: It can intensify in cream. Add more at the end if needed rather than overdoing it in the beginning.
• Using low-fat cream substitutes: While tempting, they tend to split under heat. Stick with heavy cream or full-fat alternatives for the best consistency.

---

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?

8 Delicious Pairings to Complete the Meal

This bold and creamy pasta pairs well with sides that offer freshness, crunch, or a lighter contrast. Here are 8 tasty ideas to round out your dinner plate:

1. Garlic Bread or Cheese Toast

Perfect for soaking up every bit of that luscious sauce.

2. Simple Arugula or Garden Salad

Tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness.

3. Steamed Broccoli or Roasted Veggies

A nutritious and colorful balance to the meal—especially good with roasted zucchini, peppers, or asparagus.

4. Corn on the Cob or Cajun Corn Salad

Adds a sweet crunch that complements the spice of the dish beautifully.

5. Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Double up on protein with something light and smoky.

6. Crispy Fried Green Beans or Zucchini Chips

Add some crunch to your creamy pasta main course.

7. Buttermilk Biscuits or Soft Dinner Rolls

Another perfect sauce-scooping option—great for hearty appetites.

8. Sparkling Water with Lime or a Light White Wine

Cleanse your palate between bites and enhance the Cajun flavors.

---

Storage Instructions

Whether you’re meal prepping or saving leftovers, Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta holds up surprisingly well when stored properly:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power. Add a splash of milk or cream while reheating to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
• Freezing: Not ideal. The dairy-based sauce can split and become grainy when thawed. If you must freeze, do so without the pasta—just freeze the chicken and sauce portion for up to 1 month.
• Make-ahead Tip: Cook the chicken and sauce separately, then combine fresh with cooked pasta when ready to eat for best texture.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving, based on a recipe that yields 4 servings:

• Calories: 720 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 155mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Serving Size: ~1 ½ cups
• Category: Dinner / Main Course
• Diet: Not vegetarian or vegan. Can be made gluten-free with GF pasta.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Want to Know About Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne is great for holding sauce, but fettuccine, rigatoni, rotini, or even spaghetti work well. Choose one with texture or ridges for the best result.

2. Is this recipe very spicy?

Not overwhelmingly. Cajun seasoning adds warmth, but it’s balanced by the cream and cheese. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the seasoning and skip the red pepper flakes.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce in advance. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture when serving.

4. How do I make it gluten-free?

Just swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free (some blends may contain additives).

5. Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes go well and add color, nutrients, and flavor.

6. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

It’s not recommended. Milk may cause the sauce to be thin or curdle. Use full-fat cream or a 50/50 mix of cream and whole milk if you’re looking to lighten it.

7. What protein alternatives can I use?

Shrimp, andouille sausage, or even tofu (for a vegetarian version) work great. Just adjust cooking times based on your protein.

8. How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce a little longer or add more cheese. If needed, a tablespoon of cream cheese or a cornstarch slurry can thicken things up fast.

---

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the kind of dish that satisfies every craving at once—spicy, cheesy, rich, and comforting. It delivers big flavor without being overly complicated or time-consuming, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Whether you’re new to Cajun spices or a seasoned heat-seeker, this dish hits the spot. Pair it with a crisp salad, warm bread, and a glass of white wine, and you’ve got a full-on crowd-pleaser. Save it, share it, and savor every bite.

---

Print