Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is an easy, bold, and comforting pasta dinner made with tender chicken, penne pasta, smoky sausage, and a rich Cajun cream sauce. Packed with spicy, garlicky flavor and ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Scroll down for simple variations to suit every preference—whether mild, spicy, extra creamy, or a little lighter.
What Is Cajun Chicken Pasta?
Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful dish inspired by traditional Cajun cuisine, known for its bold spices and hearty ingredients. Juicy chicken and smoky sausage are cooked together in a creamy Cajun garlic sauce that coats every bite of pasta. The combination of heat, creaminess, and savory depth makes this dish both comforting and exciting.
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta—along with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta—is a go-to option for quick dinners that don’t sacrifice flavor. It’s rich, slightly spicy, and comes together fast, making it an excellent choice when time is limited. It’s also a great way to prepare boneless, skinless chicken breasts without drying them out.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Authentic Flavor
This recipe captures the vibrant, smoky flavors of Cajun cooking while balancing them with a creamy pasta base. The Cajun seasoning—typically a blend of paprika, garlic, and spices—adds warmth, depth, and a signature kick that defines the dish.
Reliable and Tried-and-True
Originally published years ago and continually refined, this recipe has stood the test of time. With clear instructions, helpful tips, and flexible variations, it remains a dependable favorite for weeknight cooking.
Quick and Family-Friendly
Despite its bold flavors, this pasta is easy to customize for different heat levels, making it suitable for the whole family.
Key Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenders work best. Chicken thighs can also be used, as long as they are skinless and boneless.
Penne Pasta
Penne is a classic choice because it holds the creamy sauce well, but linguine or rigatoni are great alternatives depending on what’s available.
Smoked Sausage
Regular smoked sausage is recommended for its flavor and texture. Andouille sausage is another excellent option and a traditional Cajun favorite.
Cajun Seasoning
Cajun spice blends vary widely in salt and heat levels. Taste the sauce as it cooks and adjust the seasoning gradually to avoid over-seasoning.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms add a hearty, “meaty” texture and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. They also add extra depth and nutrition. While optional, they make the dish more satisfying.
Garlic
Fresh garlic or garlic powder enhances the overall flavor and gives the dish its comforting, home-cooked aroma.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream creates a rich, silky sauce that clings to the pasta and protein. Substituting milk will result in a thinner sauce with less richness.
Worcestershire Sauce
A small splash enhances the savory notes and boosts the overall depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan thickens the sauce and adds a savory, cheesy finish that ties all the flavors together.
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a satisfying, flavor-packed meal that’s quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough to serve to guests.
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is an easy, bold, and comforting pasta dinner made with tender chicken, penne pasta, smoky sausage, and a rich Cajun cream sauce. Packed with spicy, garlicky flavor and ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoon butter (unsalted and divided)
- 1 lb. chicken breasts
- 6 oz. smoked sausage (sliced into ¼ inch pieces)
- 8 oz. baby Bella mushrooms (sliced)
- Cajun seasoning to taste
- Italian seasoning to taste
- Salt and pepper (to taste, optional)
Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup chicken broth (sodium free)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best results)
- sea salt (to taste)
Pasta:
- 8 oz. penne pasta
Instructions
Step-By-Step Instructions
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