why make this recipe
This dish gives you a rich, creamy sauce with a nice Cajun kick. It is fast to make, uses common ingredients, and fills the whole family. If you like creamy chicken pasta, you may also enjoy a similar easy weeknight option like creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta for another quick meal.
introduction
Ultimate Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta mixes tender chicken, peppers, spinach, and a cheesy cream sauce with rotini. You can make it in about 30 minutes. It works for a cozy dinner or for guests. For a different creamy chicken pasta idea, see this version.
how to make Ultimate Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
You cook the pasta first, then sear seasoned chicken. Use the same pan to cook the peppers, spinach, and garlic. Add cream and cheese to make the sauce, then toss in the pasta and chicken. Simmer briefly so everything heats and the sauce coats the pasta.
Ingredients :
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus extra for taste)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 250g (9 oz) rotini pasta
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 4 soft dinner rolls (optional)
Directions :
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini and cook until al dente (about 8–9 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Toss diced chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic, red and green bell peppers, and spinach. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Reduce heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in Italian seasoning, parmesan, and mozzarella. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until melted and creamy.
- Return cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat well. Simmer for 2–3 minutes so everything is heated through.
- Plate the creamy Cajun chicken pasta, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with warm dinner rolls on the side.
how to serve Ultimate Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Serve hot with chopped parsley on top. Offer warm dinner rolls or a simple green salad. A squeeze of lemon or extra grated parmesan at the table is nice. For a fuller plate, add steamed vegetables or roasted broccoli.
how to store Ultimate Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Cool to room temperature, then put in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Freezing is not recommended because the cream sauce can separate.
tips to make Ultimate Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Do not overcook the pasta. Cook to al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
- Sear the chicken well for better flavor.
- Taste and add more Cajun seasoning if you want more heat.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for a smoother sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water or cream.
- For another way to use cooked chicken in a creamy pasta, try this classic chicken pot pie pasta idea for inspiration.
variation (if any)
- Swap chicken for shrimp or sliced smoked sausage.
- Use penne, fettuccine, or another pasta shape.
- Replace heavy cream with half-and-half plus a tablespoon of flour for a lighter sauce (texture will change).
- Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken?
A: Yes. Add rotisserie chicken in step 6 and heat until warmed through.
Q: Can I make this milder for kids?
A: Reduce the Cajun seasoning or use 1/2 tsp instead. You can add more later to taste.
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: Whole milk will make a thinner sauce. To keep it creamy, use half-and-half or mix milk with a small amount of cornstarch.
Q: How long does it take to make?
A: About 30 minutes from start to finish.
Conclusion
For another classic take on creamy Cajun chicken pasta, see this Creamy Cajun-Style Chicken Pasta Recipe.
Ultimate Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini and cook until al dente (about 8–9 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Toss diced chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic, red and green bell peppers, and spinach. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Reduce heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in Italian seasoning, parmesan, and mozzarella. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until melted and creamy.
- Return cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat well. Simmer for 2–3 minutes so everything is heated through.
- Plate the creamy Cajun chicken pasta, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with warm dinner rolls on the side.