Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta: Easy, Creamy & Delicious!

Estimated reading time: 11 minutes

Get ready to savor a dish bursting with bold flavors and creamy textures: Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta. This isn’t just another pasta recipe; it’s a culinary experience. Picture tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a smooth, spicy cream cheese sauce, enhanced by Cajun seasoning. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe is your go-to.

This guide will provide you with everything you need to create incredible Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta at home, including the best ingredients, step-by-step instructions, pro tips, exciting variations, and a recipe for homemade Cajun seasoning!

Why This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Recipe is a Must-Try

Before we delve into the details, let’s discuss why this Cajun chicken pasta recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household:

• Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of savory chicken, aromatic Cajun spices, and rich cream cheese creates a delightful mix of flavors that is both exciting and deeply satisfying.
• Wonderfully Creamy: Full-fat cream cheese is the secret weapon here, melting into a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of pasta and chicken.
• Surprisingly Easy to Make: While it tastes like a dish from your favorite restaurant, this recipe is straightforward and achievable even for beginner cooks.
• Quick Enough for Weeknights: From start to finish, you can have this amazing meal on the table in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Customizable to Your Liking: Adjust the spice level, add your favorite-veggies, or swap out the protein to make it uniquely yours.
• Family-Friendly (with adjustments): While Cajun seasoning has a kick, you can easily control the heat to make it enjoyable for everyone, including kids.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to pasta perfection. Here’s what you’ll need for this creamy Cajun chicken pasta:

(Yields: 4-6 servings | Prep-time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 25-30 minutes)

For the Chicken & Pasta:

• Pasta: 1 pound (450g) of your favorite pasta (penne, fettuccine, rotini, or bowties work wonderfully)
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: 1.5 pounds (about 2-3 large breasts), cut into 1-inch cubes
• Olive Oil: 02 tablespoons, for cooking the chicken and vegetables
• Cajun Seasoning: 2-3 tablespoons (adjust to your spice preference – see notes on homemade seasoning below!)
• Salt: To taste (for pasta water and seasoning chicken)
• Black Pepper: To taste

For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:

• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped (yellow or white)
• Bell Peppers: 2 mixed (e.g., 1 red, 1 green, or yellow/orange), deseeded and chopped
• Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup (low sodium recommended)
• Full-Fat Cream Cheese: 8 ounces (226g), cut into cubes and softened (this is crucial for a smooth sauce!)
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, freshly-grated, plus more for garnish
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped, for garnish (optional)
• Reserved Pasta Water: About 1 cup (you might not use all of it)

Ingredient Notes:

• Chicken: Chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor, but they will require slightly longer cooking.
• Cajun Seasoning: Store-bought works fine, but consider making your own for ultimate flavor control (recipe below!). Taste your seasoning before adding the full amount, as spice levels vary greatly between brands.
• Cream Cheese: For the creamiest sauce, use full-fat block cream cheese. Allow it to soften at room temperature for easier melting.
• Bell Peppers: The “Cajun Holy Trinity” traditionally includes celery. Feel free to add 1-2 chopped celery stalks along with the onions and peppers for a more authentic base.

Equipment Spotlight

Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother:

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Large skillet or Dutch oven (at least 12-inch, with deep sides)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta (Step-by-Step)

Follow these simple-steps to create your masterpiece:

Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large-pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to-package directions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
3. Crucial Tip: Before draining, reserve about 1-2 cups of the starchy pasta water. This magical liquid will help create a silky, well-emulsified sauce.
4. Drain the pasta and set aside. You can toss it with a drizzle of olive-oil to prevent sticking if it will sit for a while.

Prepare and Cook the Chicken (and Vegetables)

1. While the pasta water is heating, prepare your chicken. Pat the cubed-chicken dry with paper towels (this helps with browning).
2. In a bowl, toss the chicken-cubes with 1-2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, a pinch of salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Heat 01 tablespoon of olive oil in your large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
4. Once the-oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the-pan; cook in batches if necessary.
5. Cook for 05-07 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is nicely-browned on all sides and cooked through.
6. Remove the cooked-chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
7. To the same skillet, add the remaining 01 tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the chopped-onion and bell peppers (and celery, if using). Sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until softened and slightly caramelized.
8. Add the minced garlic and cook for another-minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

1. Pour the chicken-broth into the skillet with the vegetables. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any-browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the-pan, this is packed with flavor! Bring to a simmer.
2. Reduce the heat to low. Add the cubed, softened-cream cheese to the skillet. Whisk or stir continuously until the cream-cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. This might take a few minutes; be patient.
3. Stir in the remaining 01 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning (or more, to taste) and the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the Parmesan is melted and incorporated.
4. Taste the sauce. Adjust seasoning with more Cajun spice, salt, or pepper if needed.
5. If the sauce seems too-thick, gradually whisk in some of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon or two at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. The starch in the pasta-water helps to thicken and emulsify the sauce beautifully.

Combine and Serve

1. Add the cooked pasta and the reserved cooked chicken (along with any accumulated-juices from the plate) to the-skillet with the creamy Cajun sauce.
2. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated in the glorious sauce. Allow it to simmer for 1-2 minutes for the flavors to meld.
3. If the pasta-seems a bit dry, add another splash of reserved pasta water.
4. Serve your Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Cajun Chicken Pasta

Elevate your dish from good to unforgettable with these expert tips:

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente is key! The pasta will continue to cook-slightly when added to the hot sauce.
• Properly Brown the Chicken: Don’t rush this step. Browning creates depth of flavor. Avoid overcrowding the-pan, as this will steam the chicken instead of searing it.
• Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: For the richest, creamiest-texture, full-fat block cream cheese is non-negotiable. Low-fat versions can result in a thinner or grainier sauce. Ensure it’s well-softened before adding to the-pan.
• The Magic of Pasta Water: Always save some of the water you cooked the pasta in. It helps make a smooth and delicious sauce, just like in restaurants.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Cajun seasoning blends vary. Start with the recommended-amount, then taste and add more if you prefer a spicier kick. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan often-contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Grate your own for the best results.
• Sauté Aromatics Well: Take time to soften the onions and peppers properly to develop their sweetness, which balances the spice.

Delicious Variations & Customizations

One of the best things about this easy Cajun chicken pasta is its versatility. Here are some ideas:

• Protein Power-Up:
  • Shrimp: Substitute the chicken with peeled and deveined shrimp. Add them towards the end of the sauce-making process, as they cook quickly (2-3 minutes per side). “Cajun Cream Cheese Shrimp Pasta” is a fantastic alternative!
  • Note: We are avoiding pork as per instructions, but for others, Andouille sausage is a classic Cajun addition.
• Vegetable Medley:
  • Mushrooms: Sliced cremini or button mushrooms sautéed with the onions and peppers.
  • Spinach: Stir in a few handfuls of fresh-spinach at the very end until it wilts.
  • Zucchini or Yellow Squash: Chopped and sautéed with other veggies.
  • Broccoli Florets: Blanched or steamed broccoli added with the pasta.
• Pasta Shapes: While penne is a popular choice for holding sauce, try fettuccine for a classic feel, rotini for its spice-trapping spirals, or farfalle (bowties) for a fun shape.
• Spice Level Control:
  • Milder: Use a Cajun seasoning blend that is less reliant on cayenne pepper, or reduce the amount used. You can also add a touch more cream-cheese or a splash of heavy cream (if not strictly using only cream cheese) to temper the heat.
  • Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red-pepper flakes, or a few-dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
• Gluten-Free Cajun Pasta: Simply use your favorite brand of gluten-free pasta. Cook according to package directions.

Make Your Own Homemade Cajun Seasoning!

For the freshest flavor and complete control over ingredients (especially salt and spice levels), try this simple homemade Cajun seasoning blend. It’s a game-changer!

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon white pepper (optional, for a different pepper note)
• 1-2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust to your heat preference)
• 1 tablespoon salt (or to taste – you can reduce or omit if watching sodium)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Whisk thoroughly to ensure-everything is evenly distributed.
3. Store in an airtight-container in a cool, dark place for up to 06 months.

This blend is fantastic not just for this pasta, but also for seasoning chicken, fish, vegetables, and more!

What to Serve with Your Cajun Pasta

This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta is quite a complete meal on its own, but here are some simple side dishes that complement it beautifully:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking-up any extra creamy sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: A light vinaigrette-dressed salad with crisp lettuce and fresh vegetables offers a refreshing contrast.
• Steamed Green-Beans or Asparagus: Adds a touch of green and freshness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini roasted with a little olive oil and herbs.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s so good, you might not!):

• Storage: Allow the pasta to-cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating:
  • Stovetop (Recommended): Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk, chicken-broth, or water to-loosen the sauce and restore its creaminess as it heats. Stir frequently.
  • Microwave: Reheat in individual portions. Add a splash of liquid, cover, and microwave in 30-60 second inter-vals, stirring in between, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the chicken tough.
• Freezing: While you can freeze cream-based pasta dishes, the texture of the sauce might change-slightly upon thawing (it can sometimes separate or become a bit grainy). If you choose to freeze, do so in an-airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating-gently on the stovetop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and comforting goodness. We hope you enjoy making and, more importantly, eating this delicious dish. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and make it your own. Happy cooking!

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Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Recipe

Bitty

A deliciously creamy and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, vibrant Cajun spices, and a rich, velvety cream cheese sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet or Dutch oven (12-inch)
• Cutting Board
• Sharp knife
• Colander

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken & Pasta:

• 1 pound 450g pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini recommended)
• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
• 2-3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning adjust to taste, divided
• Salt to taste, for pasta water and chicken
• Black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:

• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 2 mixed bell peppers e.g., 1 red, 1 green, deseeded and chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup chicken broth low sodium recommended
• 8 ounces 226g full-fat cream cheese (cubed and softened)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated, plus more for garnish
• ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped, for garnish, optional
• 1 cup reserved pasta water approximate, use as needed

Instructions

 

• Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Important: Reserve about 1-2 cups of pasta water before draining. Drain pasta and set aside.
• Prepare & Cook Chicken: Pat chicken cubes dry. In a bowl, toss chicken with 1-2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if needed) and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  
• Sauté Vegetables: To the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil if needed. Add chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
• Make Creamy Cajun Sauce: Pour chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low. Add cubed, softened cream cheese and whisk continuously until fully melted and smooth. Stir in remaining 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (or to taste) and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
  
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, gradually whisk in reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
• Combine & Serve: Add cooked pasta and cooked chicken (with any juices) to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything. Simmer for 1-2 minutes for flavors to meld. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired.
  

Notes

Cream Cheese: Use full-fat, block-style cream cheese, softened for best results.
Pasta Water: Don’t skip reserving pasta water! It’s key for a silky sauce.
Spice Level: Adjust Cajun seasoning to your preference. Taste your blend before adding, as spice levels vary. For homemade seasoning, see blog post.
Variations:
Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp (cook quickly).
Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms or wilted spinach.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Keyword Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe, Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta, Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta