Best Louisiana Chicken Pasta

This Louisiana Chicken Pasta brings together the bold, spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine with creamy pasta for an unforgettable dish. Tender chicken, seasoned with zesty Cajun spices, is paired with a rich, creamy sauce and served over your favorite pasta. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold & Spicy – The Cajun seasoning adds the perfect amount of heat and flavor.
• Creamy & Comforting – A rich, creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta and chicken.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in less than 40 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into strips or cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or more, to taste)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces fettuccine, penne, or your favorite pasta
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Extra grated Parmesan (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips or cubes with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add butter and olive oil. Once the butter has melted, add the onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and bell pepper (if using) and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, and smoked paprika.

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired for extra heat.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce, then toss in the cooked pasta. Stir to combine and coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve

Divide the pasta between plates, garnish with fresh parsley, and top with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
• Pair with a glass of white wine (like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc) for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

• Add Shrimp – For an extra seafood twist, add shrimp to the dish along with the chicken.
• Vegetarian Option – Swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
• Spice it Up – If you love extra spice, increase the Cajun seasoning or add hot sauce to the sauce.
• Use Different Pasta – Feel free to use any pasta you prefer, like penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.

Final Thoughts

This Louisiana Chicken Pasta is the perfect balance of spicy Cajun flavor and creamy comfort. The tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together for a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a special dinner, it’s sure to impress!

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