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This creamy Cajun chicken pasta will turn your kitchen into a spicy Southern bistro in just thirty minutes. With its luscious cheese sauce clinging to every bite of tender chicken and pasta, this recipe never fails to satisfy a group or make a weeknight memorable.
It became a last minute hero for me when friends dropped by unexpectedly and we needed something impressive in a hurry. Now it is a weekly tradition everyone looks forward to
Ingredients
- Penne pasta: Delivers the perfect texture for the rich sauce Choose a shape that holds sauce well and cook just to al dente
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: These cook up juicy and tender Cut evenly for consistent results
- Cajun seasoning: Brings smoky heat and complexity Try to select a blend without added salt so you control the flavor
- Red or yellow bell pepper: Adds color sweetness and crunch Red peppers are milder and less bitter than green
- Yellow onion: Forms the base of the sauce for deep flavor Look for one with tight skin and no soft spots
- Fresh garlic: Brightens things up and gives the sauce depth Never use pre-minced it goes flat fast
- Heavy cream or half and half: Creates the signature silky sauce The higher fat content makes a difference for richness
- Cream cheese: Adds thickness and tang let it come to room temperature to melt smoothly
- Freshly grated parmesan: Finishes the sauce with salty nuttiness Choose a wedge and grate by hand for the best results
- Low sodium chicken broth: Balances and stretches the sauce without overpowering it Use homemade or a good store brand if possible
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil Cook the pasta until just al dente draining when it is slightly firm to the bite This helps it hold up in the creamy sauce
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat a heavy skillet over medium Cook diced onions and chopped bell pepper slowly about six minutes until soft and fragrant Stir often so they do not brown too quickly
- Add Garlic and Cajun Seasoning:
- Stir in the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning Cook gently for three minutes letting the spices bloom and the garlic mellow This step infuses every bite with flavor
- Cook the Chicken:
- Spread the diced chicken in an even layer in the pan Cook undisturbed for three minutes to get a good sear then stir and continue cooking until all pieces are golden and cooked through about five more minutes
- Build the Cream Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low Add heavy cream cream cheese chicken broth and parmesan Stir constantly as the cream cheese melts and the cheese blends in Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens enough to coat a spoon six to seven minutes
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add the drained pasta Toss everything together until each piece is coated in the sauce If the sauce looks too thick splash in a bit more broth
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Turn off the heat Serve immediately topped with fresh parsley more parmesan or a squeeze of lemon if you like
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My favorite part is watching everyone fight for the last creamy spoonful especially when my husband insists on sopping up every drop with crusty bread This dish always reminds me of the cozy nights we have gathered around the table sharing stories and laughter
Storage Tips
To keep leftovers fresh store pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator The sauce may thicken as it chills so whisk in a splash of milk or broth when reheating Gently rewarm the sauce on the stove over low heat stirring to keep it creamy Avoid microwaving the pasta with sauce already mixed in as it can become gummy
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap chicken for shrimp if you are craving seafood and add it during the last eight minutes of simmering Use smoked sausage or andouille for extra depth Vegans can use a plantbased cream cheese and non-dairy milk with a gluten-free pasta If bell peppers are not your favorite try mushrooms or zucchini for a new twist
Serving Suggestions
Pair with crusty bread to soak up every bit of sauce A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette balances the creamy richness Roasted broccoli or green beans make a fresh simple side For a Southern feast serve with coleslaw or cornbread on the side
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Cultural Context
Creamy Cajun chicken pasta fuses Louisiana’s famed spice blends with Italian-American comfort This dish is inspired by classic Cajun flavors but uses the cream and cheese that make Italian-style pastas so comforting It is a true melting pot recipe born from family kitchens and restaurant menus across the South
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute the chicken with shrimp or sausage?
Absolutely. Use peeled raw shrimp and cook in the simmering sauce until opaque, or stir in cooked sausage for a smoky slant. Both pair beautifully with the creamy Cajun flavors.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
For less heat, scale back the Cajun seasoning and add garlic salt instead. For more, sprinkle in cayenne or crushed red pepper to taste and stir well.
- → Is it possible to make ahead?
Prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and store separately in the refrigerator. Cook fresh pasta when serving, then reheat and combine with a splash of milk or broth for optimal creaminess.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Crusty bread, garlic bread, or breadsticks let you savor the extra sauce, while green salads or roasted vegetables make delicious, lighter accompaniments.
- → Can this be prepared gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta to enjoy the same creamy, spicy flavors without gluten.
- → Is adding tomatoes recommended?
You may add drained diced tomatoes with the bell peppers for a tangy twist, though the classic preparation is just as tasty without them.