I love how this Cajun Chicken Pasta comes together in one pan with a creamy, flavorful sauce and tender bites of chicken and pasta. It is the kind of comforting dinner I reach for on busy weeknights when I still want something homemade and satisfying on the table fast. The Cajun seasoning adds just enough warmth without overpowering the dish, making it a meal everyone can enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it is quick, reliable, and packed with flavor using simple pantry staples. I can have dinner ready in about 20 minutes, and everything cooks in one pan, which means less cleanup. I also like how easy it is to adjust the spice level and add whatever vegetables I have on hand, making it a flexible go-to meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
8 ounces farfalle pasta or any favorite pasta
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, more or less to taste
4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into small pieces
1 cup milk
3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt, more to taste if needed
Fresh vegetables as desired, such as bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli
Directions
I start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. I drain it, rinse it briefly with cold water, and set it aside.
In a large skillet, I melt the butter over medium heat. I add the garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. I then add the chicken pieces and any vegetables I am using, seasoning everything with Cajun seasoning. I cook this mixture for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the chicken is almost cooked through.
Next, I pour in the milk and add the cream cheese. I stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth. I add the cooked pasta and parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper. I stir everything together and serve it right away while it is hot and creamy.
Servings And Timing
I usually make this recipe to serve 4 people. The prep time takes about 5 minutes, the cooking time is around 15 minutes, and the total time from start to finish is approximately 20 minutes.
Variations
I like to change this recipe depending on what I have available. For a spicier version, I add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper. When I want a lighter option, I use whole grain pasta, low-fat cream cheese, and skim milk. I also enjoy adding vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, asparagus, or spinach to boost the nutrition and color of the dish.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
I prefer it fresh, but I can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, I reheat it and stir in freshly cooked pasta and cheese.
What type of pasta works best?
I usually use farfalle, but I have made this with penne, rotini, shells, and even linguine with great results.
Is this dish very spicy?
I find the spice level to be mild to medium. I adjust the Cajun seasoning depending on who I am cooking for.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
I sometimes use leftover or rotisserie chicken. I simply add it when the sauce is nearly finished so it warms through without drying out.
What vegetables work well in this recipe?
I like using bell peppers, spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, zucchini, or asparagus. Almost any vegetable works well here.
Conclusion
I keep coming back to this Cajun Chicken Pasta because it is creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. It fits perfectly into busy weeknights while still feeling special and full of flavor. This is one of those recipes I know I can rely on when I want a quick, satisfying meal everyone enjoys.
This Easy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a quick, one-pan dinner made with tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy, flavorful Cajun-spiced sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup and maximum comfort.
Ingredients
8 ounces farfalle pasta or any favorite pasta
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, more or less to taste
4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into small pieces
1 cup milk
3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt, more to taste if needed
Fresh vegetables as desired (bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli)
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add chicken and any desired vegetables. Season with Cajun seasoning and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until chicken is nearly cooked through.
Pour in the milk and add cream cheese. Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes until cream cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
Add cooked pasta and parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Stir everything together and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
Adjust Cajun seasoning or add cayenne pepper for more spice.
Use low-fat cream cheese and skim milk for a lighter version.
Add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of milk if needed.
