Introduction

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish that brings a little southern spice to your dinner table. Tender chicken cutlets are coated in a fragrant Cajun seasoning and served over pasta tossed in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal with a touch of elegance.

A large white plate with brown speckles holds a creamy pasta dish made of shell-shaped pasta coated in a light beige sauce. Mixed in are small pieces of red tomatoes and green scallions, adding pops of color. On the right side, there are two pieces of grilled chicken breast with a golden-brown crust, also covered with the creamy sauce. The dish is topped with finely grated white cheese and garnished with fresh green basil leaves on the left. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked pasta
2 chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise)
1/2 tablespoon + 1/2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (use a low or no salt variety)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt & pepper (as needed, to taste)
Flour for dredging + 1 teaspoon flour (divided)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter (divided)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy/whipping cream
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
1 medium tomato (chopped small)
For serving: chopped fresh basil, parsley, scallions, and freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Boil a salted pot of water and cook the pasta al dente according to the package directions.
Step 2: Meanwhile, cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner cutlets. Season with 1/2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and salt & pepper. Coat each piece in flour, shaking off any excess.
Step 3: Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until warm.
Step 4: Cook the chicken cutlets for 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 5: Reduce heat to medium, add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and 1 teaspoon flour. Cook, stirring nearly constantly, for about one minute.
Step 6: Whisk in heavy cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), and the remaining 1/2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning.
Step 7: Stir in the chopped tomato and allow the sauce to thicken for a few minutes, adding a splash of hot pasta water if it becomes too thick.
Step 8: Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce. Stir in fresh basil, parsley, and scallions if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 9: Serve the pasta topped with sliced or whole chicken cutlets and freshly grated parmesan cheese if you like.

Tips & Variations

Use a low-sodium Cajun seasoning or adjust salt carefully, especially if you plan to add parmesan cheese.
For a lighter twist, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for extra smoky heat.
Swap fresh tomato for sun-dried tomatoes to deepen the flavor.
Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

A white pan filled with a creamy pasta dish featuring about two layers: the base layer is made of beige shell pasta mixed with small chopped red tomatoes and green herbs, creating a colorful contrast, while the top layer has sliced, grilled chicken breast pieces with a golden-brown seared crust. The chicken and pasta are lightly sprinkled with grated white cheese, giving a textured finish. The pan sits on a white marbled surface with fresh green basil leaves nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, this dish works well with most pasta shapes like penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a bit of butter, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, use full-fat coconut milk and adjust seasoning to taste.