Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Cajun Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender, juicy chicken seasoned with bold Cajun spices, tossed with al dente penne in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Infused with garlic, Rotel tomatoes, and a hint of spice from cayenne and hot sauce, this easy recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal at home. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this one-pan dish is quick to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• ½ cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 ¼ cups half-and-half (half cream, half milk)
• ¾ cup chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 10 oz Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, drained
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (see notes for substitutes)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ lb. penne pasta

Seasonings:

• 1 ½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon each: onion powder, dried basil, oregano, mustard powder
• Pinch each: red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper

For Serving:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped

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Instructions

Prep Work:

1. In a measuring cup, combine the half-and-half, chicken broth, hot sauce, honey, and seasonings. Set aside.
2. Measure out all other ingredients before starting. Place a measuring cup in the colander to remind you to save pasta water later.

Cook the Chicken:

1. Slice the chicken breast lengthwise into 2-3 thinner pieces. Pat dry and season both sides with Cajun seasoning. Sprinkle with flour and rub it in to coat evenly.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden. Set aside, let rest for 10 minutes, then slice into strips.

Prepare the Sauce:

1. Start heating a pot of salted water for the pasta.
2. In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the wine over medium heat. Let it reduce by half (about 3 minutes), using a spatula to scrape up any browned bits for flavor.
3. Add butter and garlic, cooking for 1 minute. Stir in the flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Add the tomato paste and mix well.
4. Gradually add the half-and-half mixture in small amounts, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Add the drained Rotel tomatoes and let the sauce simmer while you cook the pasta.

Cook the Pasta:

1. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

Finish the Dish:

1. Reduce the heat of the sauce to low and gradually stir in the mozzarella and cheddar until melted and smooth.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Stir in the sliced chicken and let it warm through for 2 minutes.
3. If desired, add a splash of reserved pasta water for a creamier consistency.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold flavors: A perfect blend of Cajun spices, creamy sauce, and tender chicken.
• Comforting and satisfying: A hearty pasta dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal.
• Versatile: Easy to customize with different proteins, cheeses, or spice levels.

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Tips

• Save pasta water: It’s the secret to a creamier, more cohesive sauce.
• Adjust spice levels: Use more or less Cajun seasoning and cayenne to suit your taste.
• Use fresh chicken: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, high-quality chicken breast.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein swaps: Substitute chicken with shrimp, sausage, or tofu for a twist.
• Cheese options: Swap mozzarella with gouda or fontina for a different flavor profile.
• Alcohol-free: Replace white wine with additional chicken broth or apple cider vinegar.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Store separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

What is the best pasta for this recipe?
Penne is great, but you can use any sturdy pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle.

Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the heat by adding more or less cayenne and hot sauce.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables.
• Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of Chardonnay or a light lager to balance the spice.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pasta.

Enjoy this Cajun Chicken Pasta for a flavorful, comforting meal that’s sure to impress!