If you’re craving big flavors and ultimate comfort in a single dish, you’re in the right place! Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta is the kind of meal that instantly grabs attention with its velvety sauce and bold southern flair. Imagine juicy chicken, smoky sausage, and earthy mushrooms all tossed together in a silky Cajun-spiced cream sauce—this is weeknight dinner nirvana. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; everyone went back for seconds and wanted the recipe!
This pasta has quickly become a go-to favorite because it’s simple enough for a busy Tuesday but impressive enough to serve to guests. The best part? It comes together in just about 30 minutes and uses easy-to-find ingredients. If you loved my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, this recipe will be your next obsession! Cozy, quick, and packed with flavor—let’s dive right in.
What is Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta?
So, what’s behind the catchy name Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta? Besides being a delicious tongue twister, this dish is all about classic comfort with a southern spin! Sure, pastas are a dime a dozen, but how often do you get a dinner that’s creamy, zesty, AND loaded with both chicken and sausage? Did someone say double the fun (and protein)? As the old saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and I say, this recipe is pure heart-stealer! Why’s it called this? The answer is as simple as the recipe—because it’s exactly what you get in every hearty, flavorful bite. Give it a try and let your taste buds do a happy dance!
Why You’ll Love This
There’s just so much to love about this Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta! First, the highlight: a luscious, velvety Cajun cream sauce clings to every bite, perfectly balancing smokiness from the sausage with juicy, tender chicken and mushrooms. Making this at home is a total win for your wallet—ditch the pricey restaurant bills and control the spice level to your own preference (perfect for families!). Plus, finishing touches like a generous shower of freshly grated Parmesan and a perfectly cooked penne pasta take this dish from everyday to extraordinary.
If you enjoyed my Chicken Alfredo Bake, you’ll adore how this recipe packs even more flavor with its bold Cajun personality. Ready for an irresistible dinner that saves money and brings everyone together? Roll up your sleeves, grab your skillet, and try this one tonight!
How to Make
Quick Overview
This Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta is every home cook’s dream because it’s fast, delicious, and wonderfully satisfying. You’ll be wowed by the ultra-creamy sauce, the spicy Cajun seasoning, and the hearty combination of chicken and sausage. And the best part? From pan to plate in about 30 minutes! Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean you’ll have dinner ready before anyone gets hangry.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 pound chicken breasts
- 6 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4 inch pieces
- 8 ounces baby Bella mushrooms, sliced
- Cajun seasoning, to taste
- Italian seasoning, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste (optional)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (sodium free)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated for best results
- Sea salt, to taste
- 8 ounces penne pasta
Step-by-Step
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, heat 1.5 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, and a little salt and pepper, if desired.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan, rest briefly, then slice into strips.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add sliced sausage and cook for 2–3 minutes until browned. Add mushrooms and cook for another 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to loosen any flavorful bits from the pan.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder. Heat until the sauce starts to thicken (about 3–5 minutes).
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is silky. Taste and adjust salt or Cajun seasoning as desired.
- Add cooked pasta, chicken, and sausage to the skillet. Toss everything together until coated and heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning if you like.
What to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta With
To round out this comforting classic, pair your pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a simple side of roasted veggies to add freshness and color. Buttery garlic bread or warm baguette slices are perfect for soaking up all the extra creamy sauce. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling lemonade complements the robust flavors—excellent for family dinners or casual gatherings!
Top Tips for Perfecting
For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and a high-quality smoked sausage. If you prefer a lighter version, swap the heavy cream with half-and-half. Watching your sodium? Opt for low-sodium broth and go easy on added salt—smoked sausage and Cajun seasoning already bring plenty of punch. Want a vegetarian twist? Skip the meat and add more mushrooms, or try zucchini.
Don’t rush the sauce; let it thicken gently over low heat for unbeatable creaminess. Taste as you go, especially with Cajun spices, and remember: it’s easier to add heat than to take it away! Avoid overcooking the chicken and pasta so everything stays juicy and perfect.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. For microwave reheating, use 50% power and stir halfway through to prevent the sauce from separating.
To freeze, cool completely and transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as above. Just know that the sauce may become a bit less creamy after freezing, but it still tastes great!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne works beautifully, but feel free to use rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.
Is this dish really spicy?
It’s as spicy as you make it! Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste, and don’t forget—you can always add more heat at the end.
Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs bring even more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?
Half-and-half or even a combo of milk and a little cream cheese can work in a pinch—just keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Easy! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and check the ingredients on your sausage and seasonings.
Conclusion
Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy, southern-inspired twist. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and bursting with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Don’t forget to share your creations or ask questions in the comments below—I love hearing from fellow pasta lovers! Give this recipe a try, and you’ll soon understand why it’s a family favorite in so many kitchens. Enjoy every creamy, Cajun-spiced bite!
Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Divided
- 1 pound Chicken Breasts
- 6 ounces Smoked Sausage Sliced into 1/4 inch pieces
- 8 ounces Baby Bella Mushrooms Sliced
- to taste Cajun Seasoning
- to taste Italian Seasoning
- to taste Salt and Pepper Optional
- 4 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 cup Chicken Broth Sodium free
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 2 teaspoons Cajun Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 3/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated for best results
- to taste Sea Salt
- 8 ounces Penne Pasta
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat 1.5 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, and a little salt and pepper, if desired.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan, rest briefly, then slice into strips.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add sliced sausage and cook for 2–3 minutes until browned. Add mushrooms and cook for another 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to loosen any flavorful bits from the pan.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder. Heat until the sauce starts to thicken (about 3–5 minutes).
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is silky. Taste and adjust salt or Cajun seasoning as desired.
- Add cooked pasta, chicken, and sausage to the skillet. Toss everything together until coated and heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning if you like.