Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe

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Rich, bold, and irresistibly creamy, this Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta recipe is your go-to dish when you crave something comforting with a kick. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a steamy bowl of pasta cloaked in a velvety Cajun-spiced sauce and topped with seared golden chicken. It’s the kind of weeknight magic that feels like a weekend indulgence.

The combination of smoky Cajun flavors, pan-seared chicken, and silky cream sauce gives this pasta a satisfying depth without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a fast and flavorful dinner, this dish checks all the boxes.

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Ingredients for the Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta

• Chicken breast
• Fettuccine or linguine
• Cajun seasoning
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Parsley (optional)

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How To Make the Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them generously on both sides with Cajun seasoning. Heat a mixture of olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and let rest before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a bit more butter if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and continue to cook until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with a pinch of Cajun seasoning and salt to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached. Slice the rested chicken and place it on top of the creamy pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a few extra cracks of black pepper.

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How to Serve and Store Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta

This pasta is best served immediately while it’s hot and the sauce is silky. Plate it with a generous portion of sliced Cajun chicken on top, and finish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make a quick homemade version using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust spice levels to your preference.

Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp works beautifully with this creamy Cajun sauce. Just sauté them for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes. Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plain, unsweetened dairy-free milk like oat or almond. Use a plant-based Parmesan alternative, or simply skip the cheese.

What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine and linguine are great because they hold onto the creamy sauce well, but penne or rigatoni can also work if you prefer a tubular pasta.

How spicy is it?

It depends on the Cajun seasoning. You can control the heat by reducing the amount used or choosing a mild blend.

Can I make it ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep the chicken and even cook the pasta in advance. Store them separately and combine with sauce when ready to serve.

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