Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta with a Kick

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: ~620 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan

• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for extra kick)

• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Pasta

• 300 g fettuccine or penne pasta

• Pasta water as needed

For Serving

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Extra Parmesan

• More Cajun seasoning for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.

2. Season & Cook the Chicken

1. In a bowl, toss chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.

3. Sear chicken for 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked.

4. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Cajun Alfredo Sauce

1. In the same pan, melt butter.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

3. Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently.

4. Add Parmesan and stir until melted and creamy.

5. Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if you want extra heat.

6. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water.

4. Combine Everything

1. Add cooked pasta into the sauce and toss to coat.

2. Add chicken back into the pan.

3. Mix gently until everything is creamy, glossy, and evenly coated.

5. Serve

• Plate the pasta.

• Top with parsley, extra Parmesan, and a pinch of Cajun seasoning for color and heat.

• Serve hot.
  

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use a mix of butter + olive oil when cooking chicken.

• Want it spicier? Add cayenne pepper or double the Cajun seasoning.

• Add veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to upgrade the dish.

• Use shrimp instead of chicken for a Cajun seafood twist.