Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne's my favorite because the ridges hold the sauce beautifully, but any short pasta works - rigatoni, farfalle, even rotini. Just keep an eye on cooking times since shapes vary. For more pasta inspiration, check out these cozy fall pasta recipes .

How can I tone down the spice?

Easy fixes! Use mild Cajun seasoning or cut the amount in half. You can also stir in a splash of cream or extra Parmesan at the end to mellow the heat. My mom adds a teaspoon of honey when she wants it kid-friendly.

What's a good heavy cream substitute?

Half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of butter works in a pinch (it'll be thinner though). For dairy-free, canned coconut milk adds great richness - just know it'll taste slightly tropical!

Can I prep this ahead?

You bet! Cook the chicken and sauce separately, then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready. The sauce thickens as it sits, so you'll need to loosen it with a splash of milk when reheating.

30-Minute Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe You’ll Crave

Name: 30-Minute Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe You’ll Crave
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced; 8 oz penne pasta; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)

Description

A quick and creamy Cajun chicken pasta with tender chicken and a spicy, flavorful sauce.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
8 oz penne pasta
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Cook chicken in the pan for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Reduce heat to medium and add heavy cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Add cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve.

Notes

Adjust Cajun seasoning for more or less heat.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Cajun