Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized strips
Chicken breasts are lean, while thighs are juicier. Both work well.
Pasta
- 12 oz (340g) pasta, such as fettuccine, penne, or linguine
Fettuccine or linguine hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
Vegetables
- 1 bell pepper, sliced thinly
- 1 small onion, sliced thinly
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- Optional: mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1–2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnishes (Optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes for more heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Slice chicken into thin, bite-sized strips.
- Slice the onion and bell pepper thinly for even cooking.
- Mince garlic.
- Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Tip: Reserving pasta water helps thin the sauce if it becomes too thick later.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken strips and season with ½–1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (depending on your spice tolerance).
- Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Browning the chicken adds flavor and texture—don’t skip this step.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil or butter.
- Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Optional: If adding mushrooms or spinach, add them here for extra flavor and nutrition.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium.
- Sprinkle in the remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir to coat the vegetables and toast the spices lightly.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet.
- Toss everything gently until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy Cajun sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed.
Make sure the sauce clings to the pasta—it’s what makes every bite flavorful and indulgent.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Plate the creamy Cajun chicken pasta in bowls or on a serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Optional: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor.
