Kickin’ Cajun Chicken Pasta
Kickin’ Cajun Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal 🌶️. Juicy Cajun-spiced chicken in a silky Parmesan cream sauce - all cooked in one pan! This weeknight meal always hits the spot. It's flavorful, creamy, and perfect for reheating as leftovers. A true crowd-pleaser for busy evenings.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken
boneless, skinless chicken breasts1lb
Cajun seasoning2tbsp
Kosher salt
freshly ground black pepper
olive oil1tsp
For the Sauce
- olive oil or butter2tbsp
small onion, diced1
red or yellow bell pepper, diced1
stalk celery, diced1
garlic, minced3clove- Cajun seasoning2tbsp
smoked paprika1/2tsp
dried thyme (optional)1/2tsp
dry white wine1/2cup
low-sodium chicken broth1cup
heavy cream (or half-and-half)3/4cup
freshly grated Parmesan cheese1/2cup
penne or rigatoni12oz
Fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh chives, chopped
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
525.0kcal (26.25%)
Protein
37.5g (75%)
Carbs
37.5g (13.64%)
Sugars
3.8g (7.5%)
Healthy Fat
15.1g
Unhealthy Fat
12.5g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Kickin’ Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, reserve ½ cup cooking water, then drain.
- Step 2
Season chicken with Cajun spice, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Step 3
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
- Step 4
In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Step 5
Deglaze the skillet with wine, scraping up browned bits. Simmer until reduced by half, about 2 minutes.
- Step 6
Stir in chicken broth, then reduce heat to low. Add cream, Parmesan, and Cajun seasoning. Simmer until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Step 7
Return chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated, loosening with reserved pasta water as needed. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Step 8
Garnish with parsley, chives, and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
525.0kcal (26.25%)
Protein
37.5g (75%)
Carbs
37.5g (13.64%)
Sugars
3.8g (7.5%)
Healthy Fat
15.1g
Unhealthy Fat
12.5g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Cajun seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
Leftovers reheat beautifully, making this a great make-ahead meal.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
Adjust the level of Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference.
FAQS
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, but penne or rigatoni works best for holding the sauce.
Can I make this dish less spicy?
To reduce the spice level, use less Cajun seasoning and omit the smoked paprika.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter version, but the sauce may be less creamy.
What can I use instead of white wine?
You can substitute white wine with chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
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Carly's Cookbook
(@carlyscookbook)
I’ve got your dinner plans! 🍋healthy(ish), simple recipes for every home cook I’ve got your dinner plans! 🍋healthy(ish), simple recipes for every home cook...
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