Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Cajun chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort dish with a spicy kick. Tender chicken breast is coated in smoky Cajun seasoning, pan-seared until golden, and then simmered in a rich sauce made with Parmesan, garlic, and melted mozzarella. The result is a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and cheesy goodness that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. What I love about this dish is how customizable it is—you can adjust the spice level to your liking or switch up the pasta shape. I once tried this with penne instead of fettuccine, and the sauce nestled perfectly inside the pasta tubes. The bold Cajun flavors combined with the creaminess of cheese make this recipe both indulgent and satisfying. It is perfect for busy weeknights but also impressive enough to serve to friends and family.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breast – Lean and tender, chicken breast absorbs the Cajun spices beautifully and cooks quickly. Cut into strips or bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Cajun seasoning – The star of the dish. It adds smoky, spicy, and savory notes that elevate the sauce and chicken. Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.

Olive oil – Provides the perfect base for searing the chicken and prevents sticking.

Butter – Adds richness and depth to the creamy sauce, complementing the Cajun spices.

Garlic – Fresh garlic is sautéed to infuse the sauce with its unmistakable aroma and flavor.

Heavy cream – Creates a silky base for the sauce that coats the pasta luxuriously.

Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan adds sharpness and nutty undertones to balance the creaminess.

Mozzarella cheese – Melts into the sauce for a stretchy, gooey texture that makes each bite indulgent.

Pasta – Fettuccine or penne works wonderfully here. The pasta serves as the canvas for the rich Cajun cream sauce.

Fresh parsley – Provides a burst of freshness and a pop of color to finish the dish.

Directions

Start by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. While the pasta cooks, season the chicken pieces generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken, searing until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Lower the heat slightly, then pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic and pan juices. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth. Stir in the mozzarella and allow it to melt, creating a thick and creamy sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and gently stir until everything is well combined and coated in the creamy Cajun sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, while cooking takes around 20 minutes, making it a quick 30-minute meal. It is ideal for weeknight dinners but flavorful enough for a weekend treat.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving on high, as the chicken can dry out and the sauce may separate.

Variations and Customizations

Add vegetables – Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach complement the Cajun flavors beautifully.

Spicy upgrade – Increase the Cajun seasoning or add cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Cheese swap – Use cheddar or Monterey Jack instead of mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.

Lighter version – Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce that still tastes indulgent.

Seafood twist – Substitute chicken with shrimp for a Cajun-inspired seafood pasta.

Bacon boost – Stir in crispy bacon pieces for a smoky, salty addition.

Herb finish – Add fresh basil or thyme for an aromatic upgrade.

Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free pasta without compromising flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and offer more juiciness.

How spicy is this dish?

It depends on the Cajun seasoning used. You can adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the amount.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner. Half-and-half is a better substitute.

What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni are excellent options as they hold the sauce well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, but cook the pasta fresh for best results.

Does mozzarella make the sauce stringy?

No, when combined with cream and Parmesan, it melts smoothly into the sauce.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.

What sides go well with this pasta?

Garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables are perfect accompaniments.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended, as creamy sauces often separate when thawed.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer it longer or add more Parmesan cheese until it reaches the desired consistency.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun chicken pasta with Parmesan, garlic, and mozzarella is a dish that combines bold flavors with indulgent comfort. The smoky Cajun seasoning perfectly balances the richness of the creamy sauce, while the melted cheeses give it irresistible depth. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a practical yet impressive meal. Whether you are serving it on a weeknight or for a special dinner, this recipe guarantees satisfaction. Once you try it, it will become a regular favorite in your kitchen rotation.

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