Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Garlic, Parmesan & Mozzarella
A comforting and flavorful dish packed with Cajun spice, creamy cheese sauce, and tender chicken — perfect for a cozy dinner!
Ingredients
For the Cajun Chicken:
1.25 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta & Creamy Sauce:
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or any short pasta)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 oz cream cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella
½ cup grated Parmesan
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
½ cup reserved pasta water (for adjusting sauce consistency)
Optional Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese
A dash of Cajun seasoning
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cajun Chicken
Pat chicken strips dry and season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Using the same skillet, sauté garlic in the remaining butter for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Whisk in the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until the sauce becomes rich and velvety.
If you like extra heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing until well coated.
Return the chicken to the skillet and mix gently.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Serve warm, topped with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for color and flavor.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
⚡ Calories: ~850 kcal per serving
