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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Instant Pot

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipes

Looking for a pasta dish that is creamy, rich, and packed with bold, zesty flavors? Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the ultimate answer. Tender, perfectly seasoned chicken, creamy sauce, and a kick of spice from Cajun seasoning come together in a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Sauté, Boil
Cuisine Cajun, Southern
Servings 4
Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz penne fettuccine, or spaghetti
  • Salt for pasta water

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley chopped (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temp). Set aside to rest and slice.
  • Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  • Make Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, then pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Simmer for 4-5 minutes to thicken. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
  • Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to adjust consistency. Add sliced chicken and toss gently to combine.
  • Finish: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Shrimp Version: Swap chicken for shrimp; sauté shrimp until pink.
  • Vegetables: Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days; best when fresh.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
  • Calories: 650
  • Protein: 40g
  • Carbs: 50g
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 105mg
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Vitamin A: 25% DV
  • Vitamin C: 10% DV
  • Calcium: 25% DV
  • Iron: 15% DV
Keyword Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta