Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Creamy, spicy, and utterly comforting — this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a weeknight hero that brings big flavor with very little fuss.
Servings: 4 servings
Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Pot
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed (about 1-inch pieces)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Heavy cream (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup Chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated if possible)
- 8 ounces Fettuccine pasta
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.
- In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. When the oil shimmers, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook without moving for 2–3 minutes to get a golden crust, then stir and continue cooking until the chicken is cooked through, approximately 5–6 minutes total depending on piece size. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, lower heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the sauce thicken slightly; if it gets too thick, loosen with a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked fettuccine. Toss everything together over low heat until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun seasoning if desired.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm immediately.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best flavor and texture, eat leftovers within 2–3 days.