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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella

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Get ready for a weeknight dinner that brings bold Southern flavor to your table in under 30 minutes. This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella is comfort food at its finest—rich, creamy, cheesy, and bursting with smoky Cajun spices. Tender chicken breasts are seared to perfection and tossed in a luxurious sauce loaded with garlic, Parmesan, and gooey mozzarella.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a satisfying bowl of pasta, this dish delivers a restaurant-worthy experience right at home. Plus, it comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Let your taste buds dance with every bite of this irresistible creamy Cajun pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves spicy, creamy pasta with bold flavor and minimal fuss. The creamy sauce tempers the heat of the Cajun seasoning, and the melty cheeses add that satisfying richness. It’s quick, filling, and family-friendly, making it a repeat favorite.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work wonderfully in this dish because they cook quickly and slice easily. You can also use chicken thighs for more flavor or even pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a time-saving twist.


Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Each ingredient in this pasta plays a special role in creating its signature taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star protein, tender and flavorful when seared with Cajun spice.
  • Cajun seasoning – Adds that signature smoky heat and bold Southern flavor.
  • Olive oil – For searing the chicken and sautéing the garlic.
  • Garlic cloves – Aromatic and savory, garlic brings depth to the creamy sauce.
  • Heavy cream – The base of the sauce, rich and velvety.
  • Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
  • Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully into the sauce for that creamy, gooey texture.
  • Pasta (penne or fettuccine) – The vessel for all that saucy goodness.
  • Salt and pepper – To season everything just right.
  • Parsley – Optional garnish for a pop of color and freshness.
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How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Rub Cajun seasoning generously over the chicken breasts. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice into strips.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella, whisking until smooth and fully melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the sliced chicken back into the sauce along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together. If needed, add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy the creamy, spicy, cheesy magic in every bite.


How to Serve and Store This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, serving about 4 people generously. Serve it straight from the skillet while it’s warm and the cheese is perfectly melted. Add a light salad or some garlic bread on the side to round out the meal.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of creamy sauce.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich pasta.

Roasted Vegetables

Oven-roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus balance the meal with some healthy greens.

Cornbread Muffins

Sweet, crumbly cornbread offers a Southern twist and pairs well with Cajun spices.

Grilled Shrimp

Add extra protein and a seafood flair by serving grilled Cajun shrimp on the side.

Steamed Broccoli

Simple and nutritious, broccoli adds color and texture without overwhelming the dish.

Sparkling Lemon Water

A refreshing, citrusy drink that cleanses the palate between bites.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish less spicy?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild variety. Adding a bit more cream and cheese will also tone down the heat.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can swap mozzarella with cheddar for a sharper flavor or Monterey Jack for a smoother melt.

Can I make it ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and chicken a day ahead and store them separately. Reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Sure! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your Cajun seasoning blend is gluten-free too.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Cream-based sauces don’t freeze very well as they can separate. It’s better to enjoy this pasta fresh or refrigerated for a couple of days.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up more or tone it down? Did you use penne or fettuccine?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food and spicy pasta dishes on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to weeknight favorites!

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella is everything you want in a comforting dinner: bold, creamy, and deeply satisfying. It’s a no-fuss, flavor-packed recipe that takes your taste buds straight to the heart of the South. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or a cozy date night at home. Give it a try, and this just might become your new favorite pasta dish!


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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella


  • Author: Tanya Rivers
  • Total Time: 30
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Spice up your dinner routine with this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta—a deliciously bold and cheesy pasta dish ready in under 30 minutes. Juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken meets a rich sauce made of garlic, Parmesan, and mozzarella, all tossed with tender pasta for the ultimate comfort meal. Whether you’re after easy dinner ideas, quick recipes for busy nights, or crave-worthy pasta dishes, this one delivers big flavor with minimal effort.


Ingredients

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 garlic cloves minced

1 cup heavy cream

0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

8 ounces penne pasta or fettuccine

0.5 teaspoon salt

0.25 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)


Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts evenly with Cajun seasoning.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove and slice.

3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until fully melted and smooth.

6. Season the sauce with salt and pepper.

7. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water.

8. Add pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat, using pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.

9. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

For a milder dish, reduce the Cajun seasoning or choose a low-spice blend.

Add a splash of chicken broth to the sauce if it becomes too thick upon reheating.

  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 20
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 580
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 145mg

Keywords: easy recipe, creamy pasta, Cajun chicken, quick dinner, pasta dinner, food ideas

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