Go Back
Creamy Cajun chicken pasta with penne pasta, bell peppers, and Parmesan cream sauce

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta combines tender Cajun-seasoned chicken, colorful bell peppers, and penne pasta in a rich Parmesan cream sauce. It's an easy weeknight dinner that brings restaurant-quality Cajun flavor to your table in about 40 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 710

Ingredients
  

Equipment

  • Large pot for cooking the pasta
  • Colander for draining the pasta
  • Large skillet or sauté pan: for cooking the chicken and sauce
  • Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient measurements

Method
 

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, toss the chicken with 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning and 1 tsp salt.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Add the onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until softened.
  5. Add the garlic, tomato paste, and remaining 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Add reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time if needed to reach your desired consistency.
  8. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
  9. Add the drained pasta and toss until evenly coated in the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Video

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth, milk, or cream to loosen the sauce.
  • Make Ahead: The chicken and vegetables can be prepped up to 1 day in advance and stored separately in the refrigerator.
  • Pasta Tip: Reserve pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps create a silky, restaurant-style sauce and can be used to adjust the consistency as needed.
  • Spice Level: For a spicier pasta, add an extra 1 tsp The Spice Girl Kitchen Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
  • Substitution: The Spice Girl Kitchen Cajun Seasoning can be replaced with your favorite Cajun seasoning blend.
  • Nutrition (per serving, 6 servings): Approximately 710 calories, 33g fat, 53g carbs, 48g protein, 3g fiber. Nutrition information is an estimate. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.