This creamy Cajun chicken pasta is a delightful dish that’s sure to please your taste buds. It’s quick to make—ready in just 30 minutes! The soft pasta blends beautifully with the tender chicken and zesty Cajun flavors. You’ll love the warm, comforting feel of this meal on your table.
Why You Will Love This Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
This recipe is a winner for many reasons. It’s simple and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are straightforward, even if you’re not an experienced cook. Plus, it’s a creamy dish with a touch of spice that the whole family will enjoy!
How to Make Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Making this comforting pasta is easy. You will prepare the chicken, create a luscious sauce, and toss everything together with your favorite pasta. In just half an hour, you’ll have a plate full of colorful, flavorful goodness.
What You Need
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp Cajun spice (divided)
- 300 g chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 brown onion (diced)
- 400 g tin chopped tomatoes
- 150-200 ml single cream (heavy cream)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 300 g penne or any pasta
- ½ bunch of coriander (cilantro) (chopped)
- 25 g parmesan cheese (grated)
Step-by-Step
Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with 2 tablespoons of Cajun spice. Cook the chicken until it’s golden and no longer pink in the center. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft. Add the chopped tomatoes and remaining Cajun spice. Stir well and let it simmer.
Finish the Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the cream. Allow it to warm gently, mixing in the lemon juice for a bright flavor.
Combine with Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and mix it with the sauce and chicken. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
Serve: Serve the pasta warm, topped with fresh cilantro and grated parmesan. Enjoy every creamy, spicy bite!
How to Serve Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. A sprinkle of extra parmesan would add a nice touch. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends.
How to Store Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can freeze this dish for up to a month. To reheat, gently warm it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore its creamy texture.
Recipe Tips
- Use thick pasta like penne for more sauce coverage.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun spice to suit your heat preference.
- Make sure the chicken is cooked through but not dry.
- Adding a handful of spinach near the end adds nutrition and color.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas.
Variations & Swaps
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Use light cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
- Add bell peppers for extra sweetness and crunch.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce ahead. Just combine with fresh pasta when ready to serve.
How do I freeze leftovers?
Let the pasta cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container for up to one month.
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! Any pasta like fusilli or spaghetti will work just fine.
What should I do if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or non-dairy milk mixed with a bit of flour to thicken.
How can I avoid overcooking the chicken?
Cook until just no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy if needed.
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 300 g chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking the chicken
- 3 tbsp Cajun spice divided
For the Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium brown onion (diced)
- 400 g tin chopped tomatoes
- 150-200 ml single cream (heavy cream)
- 1 whole juice of a lemon
For the Pasta
- 300 g penne or any pasta thick pasta is recommended
Garnishes
- ½ bunch coriander (cilantro, chopped) for serving
- 25 g parmesan cheese (grated) for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Season the chicken with 2 tablespoons of Cajun spice and cook until golden and no longer pink in the center. Remove and set aside.
Sauce Preparation
- In the same pan, add diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and remaining Cajun spice. Stir well and let it simmer.
- Lower the heat, stir in the cream, and mix in the lemon juice for a bright flavor.
Pasta Combination
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and mix it with the sauce and chicken. Toss well to coat evenly.
Serving
- Serve the pasta warm, topped with fresh cilantro and grated parmesan.
