Go Back

Recipe by:

Dana Ramsey

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for Cozy Nights

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta blends spicy and creamy flavors for a comforting holiday meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Group: Pasta
  • 400 g penne pasta
Group: Chicken
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
  • 2 Tbsp. Cajun seasoning
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
Group: Vegetables
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 200 g cherry tomatoes, halved
Group: Sauce
  • 200 ml heavy cream
  • 100 g Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • a pinch red pepper flakes, optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. In a large pot of salted water, bring your penne to a boil. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain, reserving about a cup of pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the sliced chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning until fully coated. Add them to the skillet, cooking for about 5–7 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Once the chicken is beautifully browned, stir in the chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté for another 3–4 minutes.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium, and pour in the heavy cream. Stir until the mixture is glossy, then toss in the cherry tomatoes. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Add the drained penne to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water. Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
  6. Taste your pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the sauce's creamy texture.