If you’re looking for a rich, flavor-packed dish that brings restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen in under 30 minutes, look no further than this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce. With just the right amount of spice, silky cream sauce, and juicy, golden-seared chicken, this pasta recipe is a weeknight favorite with weekend-worthy flair.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe offers an approachable yet elevated take on a comfort food classic. It’s bold, satisfying, and endlessly customizable.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Chicken Pasta

This dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and culinary sophistication. It’s a one-pan wonder (plus a pot for the pasta), which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. The Cajun spices bring a gentle heat that plays beautifully with the creaminess of the Parmesan sauce. It’s satisfying, hearty, and infused with garlic-butter magic.

This recipe is ideal for:

• Busy weeknights – It’s quick and filling.

• Dinner parties – The presentation is elegant and impressive.

• Meal prep lovers – It stores and reheats well.

• Spice lovers – The Cajun seasoning adds a flavorful kick that can be easily adjusted.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything that goes into this rich and creamy pasta dish:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced

• 12 oz penne pasta

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Each ingredient is easy to find, and the result is greater than the sum of its parts.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce, you’ll need:

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)

• Large skillet or sauté pan

• Tongs or spatula

• Sharp knife (for slicing chicken)

• Cutting board

• Measuring spoons and cups

• Grater (for fresh Parmesan, optional but recommended)

How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package directions. Once al dente, drain and set aside.

2. Season the Chicken

In a bowl, toss your sliced chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is well coated for maximum flavor.

3. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear until golden brown and cooked through—about 4–5 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

4. Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

5. Add Liquids & Cheese

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits add serious flavor! Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

6. Combine and Simmer

Return the cooked pasta and seared chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and coats everything beautifully.

7. Garnish & Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, spicy, creamy goodness.

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing chicken. This helps achieve a nice golden crust.

• Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded versions, which often contain anti-caking agents.

• Reserve a bit of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

• Taste as you go and adjust seasoning, especially salt and pepper.

Variations and Swaps

This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Here are a few ideas:

• Protein swaps: Try shrimp, andouille sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.

• Spice level: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you like it fiery, or reduce Cajun seasoning for a milder version.

• Pasta choices: Penne is classic, but feel free to use fettuccine, rigatoni, or rotini.

• Veggie add-ins: Sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes can be added to boost nutrition and color.

How to Store and Reheat

Storage:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Reheating Tips:
To reheat, add a splash of milk, cream, or broth to keep the sauce creamy. Heat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.

Freezing:
Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen and thawed, so it’s not ideal. If you do freeze it, stir well while reheating and expect some texture change.

What to Serve With Cajun Chicken Pasta

This dish is rich and filling on its own, but here are a few pairing ideas:

Sides:

• Garlic bread or a crusty baguette

• Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus

• Simple garden salad with vinaigrette

Drinks:

• White wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce.

• Iced tea or lemon water works great for a non-alcoholic option.

• Craft beer lovers might enjoy a crisp pale ale to cut through the richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, reheat everything in the sauce for the freshest flavor.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make your own with a blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a moderate kick from the Cajun seasoning. To tone it down, use less Cajun spice or opt for a mild homemade version.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with a vegan alternative, use a plant-based cream, and swap the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is more than just a pasta dish—it’s a comforting bowl of flavor, heat, and creamy goodness that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a go-to recipe that feels indulgent yet approachable, ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself on a quiet night in.

If you try this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family, and subscribe to the blog for more mouthwatering recipes delivered straight to your inbox. Happy cooking!