Name: Cajun Chicken Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish); Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

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Cajun chicken pasta in creamy Parmesan garlic sauce is a bold and comforting dish packed with spicy, smoky flavor and rich, velvety texture. Tender slices of Cajun-seasoned chicken are paired with perfectly cooked pasta and smothered in a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce that clings to every bite. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this pasta combines the kick of Cajun spices with the creamy smoothness of garlic-Parmesan sauce. It’s one of those dishes that feels like restaurant-quality comfort food, but I can make it in under an hour in my own kitchen. The flavor is bold without being overwhelming, and the balance of spice, cream, and cheese is just right. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts, thinly sliced
Cajun seasoning
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic, minced
Heavy cream
Grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine work great)
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat

Directions

I cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain it, and set it aside.
I season the chicken generously with Cajun seasoning on both sides.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 4–5 minutes per side. I transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep warm.
In the same skillet, I reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. I add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
I pour in the heavy cream, stir, and let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
I whisk in the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. I season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if I want extra heat.
I return the pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it in the sauce.
I slice the chicken and place it on top of the pasta. I finish with chopped parsley and a little extra Parmesan before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

When I want to change things up, I add sautéed bell peppers or spinach to the sauce for extra color and nutrition. I’ve also made this dish with shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist. For a lighter version, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce is slightly less rich. I sometimes mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy contrast.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I add a splash of cream or milk and warm the pasta gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to bring the sauce back together. I avoid freezing this dish, as the cream sauce can separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, if I’m short on time, I use rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken and simply toss it with the Cajun seasoning before adding it to the pasta.

What kind of pasta works best?

I like using fettuccine or linguine because they hold the creamy sauce well, but penne or bow tie pasta also work great.

How spicy is Cajun chicken pasta?

It has a kick, but it’s not overpowering. I control the heat by adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning or skipping the red pepper flakes.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, I use gluten-free pasta and double-check the Cajun seasoning for hidden gluten. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What can I serve with Cajun chicken pasta?

I usually pair it with garlic bread and a green salad. It’s rich, so something fresh on the side helps balance it out.

Conclusion

Cajun chicken pasta in creamy Parmesan garlic sauce is one of my favorite comfort food recipes. It’s flavorful, filling, and comes together quickly—perfect for a busy night or when I want something extra satisfying. Every time I make it, it disappears fast, and it’s always a hit with anyone I serve it to.