Five-Ingredient Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta 30 Minutes Easy Delicious

why make this recipe

Five-Ingredient Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for a busy weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make, requires just five simple ingredients, and can be ready in about 30 minutes. This dish brings together the rich flavors of Cajun seasoning and creamy cheese to create a comforting meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making clean-up a breeze!

how to make Five-Ingredient Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced or cubed
• 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning blend
• 8 ounces of fettuccine or your preferred pasta
• 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions, typically for 8-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a small amount of the cooking liquid in case you need to thin out the sauce later.
2. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced or cubed chicken and sprinkle with the Cajun seasoning. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Cajun sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, you can thin it out by adding a splash or two of the reserved pasta cooking liquid.

how to serve Five-Ingredient Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Serve the creamy Cajun chicken pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley if you like. It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread on the side.

how to store Five-Ingredient Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will keep well for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta cooking liquid to help bring back the sauce’s creaminess.

tips to make Five-Ingredient Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

• If you want some extra flavor, let the chicken marinate in the Cajun seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Use a pasta you love! While fettuccine works great, any pasta will do, like penne or bowtie.
• For a little heat, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

variation

You can easily turn this dish into a veggie delight by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just cook the veggies along with the chicken in the skillet for added nutrition and color.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack cheese for a kick!

2. How can I make this dish lighter?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter version.

3. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy sauce and pasta are usually a hit with kids. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning for milder flavor if needed.