Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts; 2 tbsp olive oil; 6 tsp cajun seasoning; 12 oz dry linguine; 2 tbsp butter; 1 garlic clove; 3 tbsp flour; 1½ cups milk; ½ cup heavy cream; ⅓ cup parmesan cheese; 1½ cups red bell pepper; 1½ cups yellow bell pepper; ½ large red onion; 2 cups button mushrooms; Fresh Parsley

This creamy cajun chicken pasta is a delightful blend of spicy and creamy flavors, perfect for any weeknight dinner. With grilled chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a luscious cajun-infused sauce, it's a meal that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Photos of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

When shopping for this recipe, you might need to pay special attention to cajun seasoning, heavy cream, and button mushrooms. These items are essential for achieving the authentic taste and texture of the dish. Cajun seasoning adds the signature spicy kick, while heavy cream contributes to the sauce's creamy consistency. Button mushrooms provide an earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Chicken breasts: Lean protein that will be grilled and sliced.

Olive oil: Used for grilling the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.

Cajun seasoning: Adds a spicy, flavorful kick to the dish.

Linguine: The pasta base of the recipe.

Butter: Adds richness to the sauce.

Garlic clove: Provides aromatic flavor.

Flour: Thickens the sauce.

Milk: Forms the base of the creamy sauce.

Heavy cream: Adds extra creaminess to the sauce.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, umami flavor.

Red bell pepper: Adds color and sweetness.

Yellow bell pepper: Adds color and sweetness.

Red onion: Adds a mild, sweet flavor.

Button mushrooms: Adds an earthy, umami flavor.

Fresh parsley: Provides a fresh, herbaceous finish.

One reader, Hamnet Golden says:

This creamy Cajun chicken pasta recipe is a hit! The blend of spices and creamy sauce is perfect, and the grilled chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor. The colorful veggies make it visually appealing and tasty. Definitely a new favorite in our household!

Hamnet Golden

Cooking Techniques for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

How to grill chicken: Brush the chicken with olive oil, sprinkle with cajun seasoning, and grill over medium-high heat until cooked through, rotating once halfway through grilling until the center of the chicken registers 165 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer.

How to boil pasta: Cook the pasta in salted water according to the directions listed on the package. Reserve ⅓ cup pasta water before draining.

How to make a roux: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stir in garlic and flour, and cook for 1 minute while whisking constantly.

How to make a cream sauce: While whisking slowly, pour in the milk and whisk vigorously to smooth lumps. Stir in cajun seasoning to taste, season with additional salt as needed, bring the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly, then reduce heat to low. Stir in parmesan and cream, then cook until the cheese has melted.

How to sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add red and yellow peppers and red onion and sauté for 2 minutes. Add cajun seasoning and mushrooms and sauté for 2 minutes longer.

How to combine pasta and sauce: Toss the drained pasta with the sauce mixture, adding reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time to thin the sauce as desired. Toss in the pepper mixture and chicken.

How To Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This loaded Cajun chicken pasta is a filling meal packed with grilled chicken, bell peppers, and mushrooms, tossed with linguine in a creamy cheesy sauce.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbchicken breasts,boneless, skinless, or shrimp
2tbspolive oil,divided
6tspCajun seasoning,divided, *
12ozdry linguine,or fettuccine pasta
2tbspbutter
1garlic clove,minced
3tbspflour
1½cupsmilk
½cupheavy cream,or half and half
⅓cupParmesan cheese,shredded
1½cupsred bell pepper,(1 medium), sliced into thin strips then strips halved
1½cupsyellow bell pepper,(1 medium), sliced into thin strips then strips halved
½large red onion,sliced into thin strips
2cupsbutton mushrooms,(about 8), sliced
fresh parsley,for garnish

Instructions

Heat a grill over medium-high heat. Brush the chicken with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of the Cajun seasoning.
Grill the chicken for about 8 to 10 minutes until cooked through, rotating once halfway through grilling until the center of the chicken registers 165 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer.
Transfer to a plate, cover with foil and let rest for 5 minutes. Then, cut into strips.
Boil the pasta in salted water according to directions listed on the package. Reserve ⅓ cup pasta water before draining.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the garlic and flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
While whisking slowly, pour in the milk and whisk vigorously to smooth lumps. Stir in 1 to 3 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning to taste. Season with additional salt as needed.
Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly, then reduce heat to low. Stir in the Parmesan and cream, then cook until cheese has melted. Remove from heat and set aside.
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the red and yellow peppers and red onion and sauté for 2 minutes.
Add 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning and mushrooms and sauté for 2 minutes longer.
Toss the drained pasta with the sauce mixture, adding reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time, to thin sauce as desired. Toss in pepper mixture and chicken.
Serve warm sprinkled with parsley and additional Cajun seasoning to taste. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

*Check out this Homemade Cajun Seasoning Recipe to learn how to make it.

Nutrition

Calories: 600.78kcal
Fat: 28.07g
Saturated Fat: 12.38g
Trans Fat: 0.23g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.53g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.97g
Carbohydrates: 56.06g
Fiber: 3.64g
Sugar: 7.84g
Protein: 30.61g
Cholesterol: 97.45mg
Sodium: 205.13mg
Calcium: 230.77mg
Potassium: 651.61mg
Iron: 2.61mg
Vitamin A: 253.96µg
Vitamin C: 96.07mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

When grilling chicken, ensure it is cooked evenly by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning. This helps the chicken cook uniformly and prevents dry edges.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Pre-cook the chicken: Grill the chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the fridge. This way, you can simply reheat and slice them when ready to use.

Use pre-chopped vegetables: Purchase pre-chopped red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion to save on prep time.

Make the sauce in advance: Prepare the cajun cream sauce a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently before mixing with the pasta.

Cook pasta ahead: Boil the linguine earlier in the day, toss with a bit of olive oil, and store in the fridge. Reheat by tossing in the sauce.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and can absorb the flavors of the cajun seasoning well.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking the chicken breasts.
cajun seasoning - Substitute with blackened seasoning: Blackened seasoning has a similar spicy and smoky profile, which can provide a comparable flavor.
dry linguine - Substitute with fettuccine: Fettuccine has a similar shape and texture, making it a good alternative for the pasta base.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can provide a similar creamy texture and flavor in the sauce.
garlic clove - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor profile, though it is less pungent.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent in the sauce, providing a similar consistency.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can provide a rich and creamy texture, though it will add a slight coconut flavor.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and tangy flavor, making it a good alternative.
red bell pepper - Substitute with green bell pepper: Green bell peppers have a similar texture and can add a different but still complementary flavor.
yellow bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell peppers have a similar sweetness and texture, making them a suitable substitute.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a similar texture and can provide a slightly sweeter flavor.
button mushrooms - Substitute with cremini mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms have a similar texture and a slightly deeper flavor.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro can provide a different but still fresh and vibrant flavor to the dish.

Plating Ideas for a Delicious Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the creamy cajun chicken pasta in a smaller, more refined portion to highlight the quality and flavors of the dish. Use a ring mold to create a neat, compact serving of pasta.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with finely chopped fresh parsley and a light dusting of additional cajun seasoning to add a pop of color and enhance the visual appeal.
Highlight the chicken: Arrange the grilled chicken strips elegantly on top of the pasta, fanning them out to showcase their juicy texture and perfectly cooked appearance.
Showcase the vegetables: Artfully place the sautéed red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, and button mushrooms around the pasta to create a vibrant and colorful presentation.
Use a clean, white plate: Serve the dish on a clean, white plate to make the colors of the pasta, chicken, and vegetables stand out, giving it a professional and elegant look.
Add a sauce drizzle: Drizzle a small amount of the creamy cajun sauce around the plate to add an artistic touch and enhance the overall presentation.
Incorporate texture: Sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan cheese over the top of the dish to add a touch of texture and a hint of extra flavor.
Balance the elements: Ensure that each component of the dish is balanced on the plate, with equal portions of pasta, chicken, and vegetables to create a harmonious and visually appealing presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Grill: Used to cook the chicken breasts, giving them a nice char and smoky flavor.
Instant-read thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Plate: Holds the cooked chicken while it rests and after it is sliced.
Foil: Covers the chicken to keep it warm and allow it to rest.
Large pot: Used to boil the pasta in salted water.
Measuring cups: Measures out the milk, heavy cream, and reserved pasta water.
Measuring spoons: Measures out the olive oil, cajun seasoning, and flour.
Medium saucepan: Used to make the creamy sauce by melting butter, cooking garlic and flour, and mixing in milk, cream, and cheese.
Whisk: Helps to mix the sauce ingredients smoothly and eliminate lumps.
Large skillet: Sautés the bell peppers, red onion, and mushrooms.
Tongs: Useful for turning the chicken on the grill and tossing the pasta with the sauce.
Cutting board: Provides a surface to slice the cooked chicken and chop the vegetables.
Chef's knife: Used to cut the chicken into strips and chop the vegetables.
Colander: Drains the cooked pasta.
Wooden spoon: Stirs the vegetables while they sauté in the skillet.
Serving bowl: Holds the finished pasta dish for serving.
Chopping knife: Used to finely chop the fresh parsley for garnish.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Allow the creamy cajun chicken pasta to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the pasta, it's best to freeze the sauce and chicken separately from the pasta. This will help maintain the texture of the pasta when reheated.
To freeze the sauce and chicken:
- Place the cooled sauce and chicken in separate freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To freeze the pasta:
- Cook the pasta until it's slightly underdone (al dente) to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.
- Toss the cooked pasta with a small amount of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 1 month.
To reheat the frozen creamy cajun chicken pasta:
- Thaw the sauce, chicken, and pasta in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat the sauce and chicken in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Reheat the pasta by placing it in a colander and running hot water over it until it's heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave the pasta with a small amount of water for 1-2 minutes.
- Combine the heated sauce, chicken, and pasta in a large bowl and toss until well combined.
- If the sauce appears too thick, add a small amount of milk or cream to thin it out.
- Serve the reheated creamy cajun chicken pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional cajun seasoning to taste.

How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Reheat the creamy cajun chicken pasta in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it's heated through. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up and restore its creamy texture.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place the leftover pasta in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
To reheat the creamy cajun chicken pasta in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it's heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly and develop a crispy texture.
If you have leftover grilled chicken, bell peppers, and mushrooms, reheat them separately in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of olive oil. Once they're heated through, toss them with the reheated creamy cajun pasta for a fresh and flavorful meal.
To maintain the best texture and flavor when reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pasta before reheating it. This will help prevent the pasta from drying out and keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

Interesting Trivia About Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

A fun fact about this creamy cajun chicken pasta recipe is that the cajun seasoning not only adds a spicy kick but also brings a rich cultural history. Cajun cuisine originates from the French-speaking Acadian people who were deported from Canada to Louisiana in the 18th century.

Is Making Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta at Home Cost-Effective?

Analyzing the cost-effectiveness of this creamy cajun chicken pasta recipe, we find it quite reasonable. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, linguine, bell peppers, and mushrooms are affordable and widely available. The use of olive oil, butter, and parmesan cheese adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $20-$25. Considering the rich flavors and satisfying nature of the dish, the overall verdict is a solid 8 out of 10.

Is Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy cajun chicken pasta recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes:

Lean protein from the chicken breasts
Nutritious vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms
Whole grain pasta (if using whole wheat linguine)

However, there are also some less healthy components:

High amounts of saturated fat from the butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese
Potentially high sodium content from the cajun seasoning and added salt
Refined carbohydrates if using regular white pasta

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative like evaporated milk or Greek yogurt
Reduce the amount of butter and cheese used, or opt for lower-fat versions
Use whole wheat pasta to increase fiber intake
Adjust the cajun seasoning to a lower-sodium variety, and be mindful of added salt
Increase the proportion of vegetables to pasta and chicken for a more balanced meal
Add additional herbs and spices, such as oregano or thyme, to boost flavor without relying on salt

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a delicious and creamy pasta dish that better aligns with a healthy eating plan. Remember, moderation is key, and it's okay to indulge in a slightly more decadent meal occasionally as part of a balanced diet.

Editor's Opinion on This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This creamy Cajun chicken pasta recipe masterfully balances bold flavors and creamy textures. Grilling the chicken adds a smoky depth, while the Cajun seasoning provides a delightful kick. The combination of bell peppers, red onion, and mushrooms introduces a vibrant medley of colors and flavors. The sauce, enriched with Parmesan and heavy cream, achieves a luxurious consistency that clings perfectly to the linguine. The use of reserved pasta water ensures the sauce reaches the ideal thickness. Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a refreshing finish. Overall, this dish is a harmonious blend of spice, creaminess, and freshness.

Enhance Your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a sublime companion to your creamy Cajun chicken pasta. The velvety texture of the potatoes combined with the rich, aromatic garlic will elevate your dining experience to new heights. Imagine the creamy goodness melding with the spicy zest of the pasta—pure culinary harmony.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy pasta. The asparagus spears, kissed by the grill's heat, bring a smoky flavor, while the lemon zest adds a burst of citrusy brightness. This side dish not only complements the main course but also adds a touch of elegance to your plate.

Caprese Salad: Caprese Salad is a vibrant and refreshing side that pairs beautifully with the creamy Cajun chicken pasta. The tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil drizzled with a balsamic reduction create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. This salad adds a burst of color and freshness to your meal, making it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.

Buttery Garlic Bread: Buttery Garlic Bread is the ultimate comfort side dish to accompany your pasta. The bread, slathered with a rich butter and garlic mixture, toasted to perfection, offers a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor. It's perfect for sopping up every last bit of that creamy Cajun sauce, ensuring no delicious drop goes to waste.

Mixed Green Salad with Vinaigrette: Mixed Green Salad with Vinaigrette provides a light and crisp counterpoint to the hearty pasta. A medley of fresh greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions, tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, offers a refreshing bite that balances the richness of the main course. This salad adds a healthy and vibrant touch to your meal.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Spicy Shrimp Alfredo: Dive into a luscious plate of shrimp alfredo with a spicy twist. This dish combines succulent shrimp with a creamy, garlicky alfredo sauce and a hint of cajun seasoning. Perfectly cooked fettuccine ties it all together, making it a delightful main course.

Cajun Chicken And Sausage Jambalaya: Experience the vibrant flavors of Louisiana with this hearty jambalaya. Featuring tender chicken, smoky sausage, and a medley of bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, this dish is a feast for the senses. The cajun spices bring it all together for a satisfying meal.

Blackened Chicken Tacos: Savor the bold flavors of blackened chicken in these delicious tacos. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of cajun spices and cooked to perfection. Served with fresh avocado, pico de gallo, and a drizzle of lime crema, these tacos are a burst of flavor in every bite.

Cajun Chicken And Rice Skillet: Whip up a quick and flavorful meal with this cajun chicken and rice skillet. Juicy chicken breasts are seasoned with cajun spices and cooked alongside bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. The rice absorbs all the delicious flavors, making it a one-pan wonder.

Cajun Shrimp And Grits: Indulge in a Southern classic with a spicy twist. This dish features plump shrimp cooked in a rich cajun sauce and served over creamy cheese grits. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a comforting and satisfying meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Begin by hollowing out button mushrooms and filling them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and bubbly, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. These bite-sized treats are perfect for starting off any meal with a burst of flavor.

Shrimp Cocktail: Kick off your dinner with a classic Shrimp Cocktail. Poach jumbo shrimp until tender and serve them chilled alongside a zesty cocktail sauce. Add a twist by incorporating a hint of horseradish and lemon juice into the sauce for an extra kick. Arrange the shrimp elegantly on a platter with lemon wedges for a sophisticated touch.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate center encased in a delicate, cake shell. As you cut into it, the warm, gooey chocolate flows out, creating a decadent experience. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry coulis for a perfect balance of flavors. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh mint leaves to elevate the presentation.

Tiramisu: Envision layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers intertwined with a luscious mascarpone cream. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of coffee, cocoa, and creamy textures. Top it off with a dusting of cocoa powder and a few chocolate shavings. Serve in a chilled glass for an elegant touch, and add a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color.

Why trust this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe:

This creamy cajun chicken pasta recipe is a surefire hit, combining the rich flavors of cajun seasoning with tender grilled chicken and a luscious cream sauce. The blend of red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, and button mushrooms adds vibrant color and texture. With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, this dish is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust this recipe for a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home.

Have you tried this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe? Share your experience, tips, and twists in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How spicy is this creamy cajun chicken pasta?

The spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. The recipe calls for 6 teaspoons of cajun seasoning, but you can add more or less depending on how much heat you like. If you're sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for linguine, you can use any pasta you have on hand. Fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti would work just fine. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time, but it's best enjoyed fresh. If you do make it ahead, store the pasta, chicken, and sauce separately in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, reheat them gently and combine just before serving.

What can I use as a substitute for heavy cream?

If you don't have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce might be a bit less rich. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk or a non-dairy cream substitute can work as well.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of milk or water to loosen up the sauce, as it can thicken when chilled.