Cajun Chicken Pasta is a bold and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Louisiana cuisine to your dinner table. With tender, bite-sized pieces of seasoned chicken, crisp-tender vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is the perfect combination of spice and comfort. The Cajun seasoning infuses every bite with a smoky, slightly spicy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the sauce. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, this pasta will quickly become a favorite in your rotation.
The dish starts with sautéing seasoned chicken until golden brown and juicy, locking in the spices for maximum flavor. Fresh vegetables, including red bell pepper, asparagus, and mushrooms, are then cooked until tender, adding vibrant colors and textures. The sauce, made with chicken broth, milk, heavy cream, and cream cheese, is infused with garlic and Parmesan, creating a luxurious, velvety coating for the pasta. Everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup effortless while ensuring that each element absorbs the rich Cajun flavors. Serve this pasta hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an irresistible meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Bold Cajun Flavor: A perfect balance of spice, smokiness, and creaminess.
• One-Pot Meal: Easy cleanup with everything cooked in a single pot.
• Creamy and Comforting: A rich, velvety sauce that coats every bite of pasta.
Ingredients
Cajun Chicken Pasta:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 ¼ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2-3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (preferably homemade)
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced thick
• 1 red bell pepper, diced small
• ½ lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch segments
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup whole or 2% milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh thyme and parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, toss the chicken with 1-2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning until well coated.
3. Add the chicken to the hot pot, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown on both sides and cook until fully cooked through.
4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
1. If needed, add another tablespoon of olive oil to the pot over medium heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the red bell pepper and asparagus, cooking for another few minutes until the mushrooms are browned and the vegetables are slightly tender.
4. Remove the vegetables from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
1. Melt the remaining butter in the pot over low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
1. Add the penne pasta to the boiling liquid and let it cook until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Once the pasta is tender, remove the pot from the heat.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
1. Stir in the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth and fully incorporated.
2. Add an additional ½ to 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, adjusting based on spice preference.
3. Return the cooked chicken and vegetables to the pot, stirring gently to combine.
4. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
1. Plate the pasta while hot, ensuring each serving has an even mix of chicken, vegetables, and sauce.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh thyme or parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Tips
• Adjusting the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Cooking the Pasta Just Right: Avoid overcooking the pasta as it will continue to absorb liquid even after being removed from the heat.
• Using Different Proteins: Substitute shrimp or sausage for the chicken to add variety.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or broth to maintain the creamy texture.
• Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the sauce can separate when frozen and reheated. However, if needed, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
