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Close-up of creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with penne noodles, grilled chicken strips, and red peppers, garnished with parsley.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Cajun Chicken Pasta is a restaurant-style dinner that delivers smoky spices, juicy chicken, and a creamy sauce wrapped around perfectly cooked pasta. This high protein recipe is hearty enough for a family meal yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Inspired by popular Cajun flavors while keeping the ingredients approachable, it balances spice, richness, and fresh vegetables in every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced into strips
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup half and half
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Small bowl

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
  2. In a small bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
  3. Toss the chicken strips with the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.
  4. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  5. Add the remaining tablespoon olive oil to the skillet. Add the bell peppers and onion. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
  6. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  7. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 3 minutes.
  8. Stir in the half and half and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
  9. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
  10. Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
  11. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For a balanced Cajun flavor, choose a seasoning blend with moderate heat. Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly into the sauce and creates a silkier finish.