Name: Kickin’ Cajun Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless (skinless chicken breasts); 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; Kosher salt; freshly ground black pepper; 1 tsp olive oil; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 small onion (diced); 1 red or yellow bell pepper (diced); 1 stalk celery (diced); 3 clove garlic (minced); 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional); 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 3/4 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half); 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 12 oz penne or rigatoni; Fresh parsley (chopped); Fresh chives (chopped)

This Kickin’ Cajun Chicken Pasta brings big, bold flavor to a weeknight. Cajun-seasoned chicken is seared until golden, then tossed with penne in a creamy, spicy Parmesan sauce loaded with the holy trinity of onion, bell pepper, and celery.

A splash of white wine and a handful of fresh herbs keep it bright, and the whole thing comes together in about 45 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Chicken Pasta

Bold flavor: smoky, spicy, and creamy.
Restaurant-style: tastes like your favorite takeout pasta.
One skillet sauce: chicken and sauce in the same pan.
Adjustable heat: use more or less Cajun seasoning.

Cajun Chicken Pasta Ingredients

Chicken Breasts

Seasoned with Cajun spice, salt, pepper, and olive oil.

Cajun Seasoning

Used on the chicken and in the sauce for layered flavor.

Onion, Bell Pepper and Celery

The classic Cajun holy trinity, plus garlic.

White Wine and Chicken Broth

Deglaze the pan and build the sauce.

Heavy Cream and Parmesan

Make it rich and creamy.

Penne or Rigatoni

Tube pasta grabs the sauce.

Parsley and Chives

Fresh garnish.

Swap It: Use gluten-free pasta for gluten-free, and swap the wine for more broth if you prefer.

How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta until al dente, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken and cook in a hot skillet until golden and cooked through, about 6 minutes per side. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Sauté the onion, bell pepper, and celery for 4 to 5 minutes, then add the garlic.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Deglaze with wine and reduce by half. Stir in broth, then cream, Parmesan, and Cajun seasoning. Simmer 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Return the sliced chicken and pasta to the skillet, toss, loosen with pasta water, and garnish with herbs and Parmesan.

Carly’s Expert Tips

Check your seasoning salt. Some Cajun blends are salty, so taste before adding more salt.
Rest the chicken. Slice after a few minutes so it stays juicy.
Scrape the pan. The browned bits add flavor.
Use pasta water. It loosens the sauce without thinning the flavor.

Make It Your Own

Shrimp: Swap the chicken for shrimp.
Andouille: Add sliced andouille sausage.
Lighter: Use half and half.
Extra heat: Add cayenne or red pepper flakes.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep: Season the chicken and chop the vegetables up to a day ahead. Leftovers make a great lunch.

What to Serve With Cajun Chicken Pasta

Serve with garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted broccoli.

Storing and Reheating

Fridge: Store for up to 3 days.

Reheat: Warm on the stove with a splash of broth or milk.

Freezer: Not recommended for cream sauces.

What People Ask About Cajun Chicken Pasta

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes. Cook until 165°F inside.

Is Cajun chicken pasta spicy?

It has a kick, but you control the heat with the seasoning.

Can I skip the wine?

Yes. Use more chicken broth.

What pasta is best?

Penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well.