7 Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipes You’ll Love
Imagine a world where your taste buds are taken to the Bayou. Here, rich creaminess meets the bold, spicy Cajun seasoning. We’re about to explore seven mouthwatering Cajun chicken pasta recipes. Get ready for a culinary adventure that will make you want more with every bite.
In this collection, you’ll find seven unique Cajun chicken pasta recipes. Each one is a masterpiece, catering to different tastes. From classic creamy to spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, or Cajun and Alfredo, we’ve got it all. Get ready for rich, velvety sauces, tender chicken, and bold spices that create a flavor symphony.
These Cajun chicken pasta recipes are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish, they’ll impress. With easy instructions and tips, you can make these restaurant-quality meals at home. Let’s explore the world of Cajun-inspired pasta dishes that will become your new favorites.
Table of Contents
1: Classic Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Experience the bayou’s flavors with this classic creamy cajun chicken pasta recipe. Tender chicken is seasoned with Cajun spices and cooked to perfection. It’s then mixed with a creamy sauce. Served over pasta, it’s a comforting meal that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tsp cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream sauce
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and 2 teaspoons of cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden and done, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium. Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until they’re soft.
4. Lower the heat and add the heavy cream sauce. Whisk in the remaining 1 teaspoon of cajun seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens.
5. Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss until well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve the classic creamy cajun chicken pasta hot. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired. Enjoy!
“This classic creamy cajun chicken pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights. The tender chicken, rich cream sauce, and cooked pasta make it a family favorite.”
2: Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Chicken Pasta
Take your pasta to the next level with this spinach and sun-dried tomato cajun chicken pasta recipe. It’s packed with fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. These add color, texture, and nutrients to the classic dish.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast
- Fresh spinach
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
Instructions
1. Sauté the chicken in a skillet with olive oil and Cajun seasoning until cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes in butter for a minute. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, and let the sauce simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss everything together with the cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips
Balance the creaminess of the sauce with the acidity of the sun-dried tomatoes for a harmonious flavor profile. You can also add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts | Value |
---|---|
Calories | 361 |
Carbohydrates | 32g |
Protein | 21g |
Fat | 18g |
Enjoy this spinach and sun-dried tomato cajun chicken pasta as a delicious and nutritious vegetable pasta recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
3: Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Get ready to enjoy a mix of Cajun spices and creamy Alfredo sauce. This cajun chicken alfredo pasta recipe combines bold flavors that will excite your taste buds. The Alfredo sauce’s richness meets the Cajun seasoning’s kick, making it both comforting and thrilling.
Ingredients
- 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 500ml double/heavy cream
- 120g freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- 450g fettuccine pasta
Instructions
To make the creamy alfredo sauce, start by sautéing the minced garlic in butter over medium heat until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and whisk in the Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken. Once it’s the right consistency, add Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt. Adjust the spice to your liking.
In another pan, sear the chicken breasts coated in Cajun seasoning until they’re cooked through. Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the Alfredo sauce. Toss the sauce with the cooked fettuccine pasta. Make sure to reserve some pasta water for the perfect creamy texture.
Nutrition Facts | Value per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 864 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 90 g |
Protein | 52 g |
Fat | 32 g |
Saturated Fat | 16 g |
Cholesterol | 241 mg |
Sodium | 1042 mg |
Fiber | 4 g |
Sugar | 6 g |
To make a balanced and creamy alfredo sauce, add Cajun seasoning slowly. This way, the spicy kick enhances the sauce’s rich, velvety texture without overpowering it. Serve this cajun chicken alfredo pasta with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
4: Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with our Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta! It’s a mix of bold Cajun spices, juicy chicken, and tender shrimp. This seafood pasta recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb penne pasta, cooked according to package instructions
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Start by seasoning the shrimp and chicken with Cajun seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and olive oil. Sauté the shrimp for about 3 minutes, until they’re pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and slice it into bite-sized pieces.
In the skillet, add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Whisk the sauce together and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp to the sauce, and toss everything together until well combined.
Serve the Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and seafood flavors in every bite!
This Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta recipe is a delightful seafood pasta dish. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of juicy chicken, succulent shrimp, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce is sure to leave your taste buds craving more. Give it a try and discover the irresistible flavors of this cajun chicken and shrimp pasta recipe!
5: Roasted Bell Pepper and Zucchini Cajun Chicken Pasta
Make your pasta night special with Roasted Bell Pepper and Zucchini Cajun Chicken Pasta. It’s a mix of tender chicken, roasted veggies, and creamy Cajun sauce. This dish is full of flavor and is very satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, or orange), sliced into thin strips
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin strips
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the bell peppers and zucchini on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, until they’re tender and caramelized.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced onion over medium heat until it’s translucent. Add the chicken and cook until it’s fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Stir well and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens a bit.
4. Cook the penne pasta as the package says. Drain it and add it to the skillet with the chicken and sauce.
5. Fold in the roasted bell peppers and zucchini. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve the Roasted Bell Pepper and Zucchini Cajun Chicken Pasta hot. You can garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. This dish is a perfect mix of savory chicken, smoky Cajun spices, and sweet roasted veggies.
6: Vegan Cajun “Chicken” Pasta
Craving Cajun flavors but want to stay plant-based? This vegan Cajun “chicken” pasta is perfect. It’s creamy, comforting, and full of Cajun spices, all without animal products.
Ingredients
- 8 oz plant-based protein (such as tofu or vegan chicken alternative)
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened plain almond milk
- 2 1/2 teaspoons homemade Cajun seasoning (or 2 teaspoons for a milder flavor)
- 1 packed cup (160g) diced bell peppers
- 8 oz uncooked penne pasta (gluten-free if desired)
- 8 oz vegan cream cheese
- 1/4 cup vegan Parmesan cheese
- Juice of 1 medium lemon
Instructions
1. Marinate the plant-based protein in the Cajun seasoning for at least 30 minutes, ensuring the flavors are well-infused.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the marinated plant-based protein over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the almond milk, vegan cream cheese, vegan Parmesan, and lemon juice. Whisk the mixture until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Add the diced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
5. Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined.
6. Serve the vegan Cajun “chicken” pasta hot, garnished with additional vegan Parmesan cheese or fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts (per serving) | Value |
---|---|
Calories | 564 |
Carbohydrates | 46g |
Protein | 37g |
Fat | 25g |
Saturated Fat | 12g |
Sodium | 415mg |
Potassium | 647mg |
Fiber | 2g |
Sugar | 3g |
Vitamin A | 1545IU |
Calcium | 170mg |
Iron | 2mg |
Indulge in this vegan cajun chicken pasta dish. It’s a mix of creamy sauce and tender plant-based protein. It’s perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking for meatless meals. This recipe will quickly become a favorite.
7: Andouille Sausage and Cajun Chicken Pasta
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this irresistible Andouille Sausage and Cajun Chicken Pasta! This dish combines smoky, spicy Andouille sausage with tender, seasoned chicken. Every bite is a flavor explosion.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fettuccine or linguine
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 teaspoons Cajun-style seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan
- 2 medium vine or Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions:
Start by sautéing the Andouille sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until it’s lightly browned and the oils have been released, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.
In the same skillet, season the chicken breasts with Cajun-style seasoning. Cook for about 8 minutes per side, or until they’re cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and slice or shred it.
Add the butter and olive oil to the skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it reduce for 5-7 minutes, until it’s thickened slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan and the diced tomatoes.
Add the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and Andouille sausage to the sauce. Toss everything together until well combined. Garnish with the sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Tips:
The Andouille sausage adds a delicious smoky, spicy depth to this dish. Be sure to sauté it first to render its flavorful oils. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your desired level of heat. For a creamier sauce, increase the amount of heavy cream. This hearty andouille sausage and cajun chicken pasta pairs perfectly with a sturdy pasta like penne or rigatoni.
Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 654 kcal |
Fat | 47g (71% of calories) |
Saturated Fat | 21g (131% of DV) |
Cholesterol | 134mg (45% of DV) |
Sodium | 704mg (31% of DV) |
Protein | 22g |
Carbohydrates | 69g |
“The combination of Andouille sausage and Cajun-seasoned chicken in this pasta dish is truly a flavor match made in heaven.”
Conclusion
These seven Cajun chicken pasta recipes bring a variety of flavors and ingredients. They cater to different tastes and diets. Feel free to mix and match your favorite parts, adjusting the spice to your liking.
These Cajun pasta dishes go great with sides like garlic bread, fresh salads, or jalapeno cornbread. They make a complete and fulfilling meal. You can also change up the protein, add more veggies, or try different pasta shapes to keep it exciting.
Don’t hesitate to add your own twist to these recipes and share them with us. The charm of Cajun chicken pasta is its flexibility. It lets you try new flavors and find your top picks. Bon appétit, and enjoy cooking!
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in the classic creamy Cajun chicken pasta?
The classic recipe has bite-sized chicken seasoned with Cajun spices. It’s sautéed in butter. Then, it’s mixed with a creamy sauce of heavy cream, smoked paprika, dried basil, and garlic powder. Fresh Parmesan cheese adds the best flavor.
How can I add more vegetables to the Cajun chicken pasta?
Adding fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes gives it more flavor and texture. Sautéing the veggies first balances the cream’s richness.
What is the difference between Cajun chicken Alfredo pasta and the classic Cajun chicken pasta?
Cajun chicken Alfredo pasta mixes Alfredo sauce with Cajun seasoning. It uses butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for the Alfredo sauce. Then, Cajun seasoning is added for spice.
Can I combine chicken and shrimp in a Cajun pasta dish?
Yes, you can mix chicken and shrimp in Cajun pasta. Both are seasoned with Cajun spices and cooked separately. The creamy sauce coats both.
How can I add roasted vegetables to the Cajun chicken pasta?
Roasting bell peppers and zucchini before adding them to the pasta enhances their sweetness. It also adds a nice texture to the dish.
Is there a vegan version of the Cajun chicken pasta?
Yes, there’s a vegan version. It uses tofu or vegan chicken alternatives. Coconut milk or cashew cream makes a creamy sauce, and nutritional yeast adds a cheesy taste.
Can I incorporate Andouille sausage into the Cajun chicken pasta?
Adding Andouille sausage gives the dish an authentic Cajun flavor. The sausage is sautéed first, then the chicken. Together, they add a smoky depth to the dish.
Source Links
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- Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta – https://sugarspunrun.com/cajun-chicken-penne-pasta/
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- Cajun Chicken Alfredo – https://vikalinka.com/cajun-chicken-alfredo/
- Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta – https://www.tablefortwoblog.com/alfredo-pasta-with-cajun-spiced-chicken/
- Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta – https://chocolatewithgrace.com/chicken-shrimp-pasta/
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- Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe – https://tastesbetterfromscratch.com/cajun-chicken-alfredo-pasta/
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- Creamy Vegan Cajun Pasta with Chick’n – https://sweetsimplevegan.com/vegan-cajun-pasta/
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