Description
This creamy Cajun chicken pasta is a deliciously indulgent dish, perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned with zesty Cajun spices and cooked to golden perfection, then tossed in a rich, velvety cream sauce. The creamy sauce is made with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of chicken broth, adding depth and flavor that beautifully complements the smoky spices. Paired with perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta, this dish strikes the ideal balance between comfort food and a flavorful kick.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
8 ounces fettuccine pasta
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil is heating, season both sides of the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and golden.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese melts into a smooth and creamy sauce.
Cook the Pasta:
While the sauce is simmering, cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it, saving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
Assemble the Dish:
Slice the rested chicken breasts into thin strips.
Add the drained fettuccine pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of the reserved pasta water at a time until you achieve the perfect consistency.
Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice for added flavor and freshness.
Top the pasta with the sliced chicken and toss everything together until fully combined and heated through.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy Cajun chicken pasta with a side of garlic bread or a light salad for the perfect meal!
Notes
Resting the Chicken: Let the chicken rest after cooking for 5 minutes to lock in the juices, ensuring it stays tender and juicy.
Spice Level: If you prefer more heat, increase the Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Parmesan Cheese: For the best creamy sauce, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded cheese.
Lighter Version: You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream for a reduced-calorie version.
Add Vegetables: For a colorful twist, add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
Nutrition
- Calories: 680 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 165mg