Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Creamy pasta with smoky Cajun seasoning, tender chicken, and sweet bell pepper. This approachable version keeps the method straightforward, with familiar ingredients and a few small details that make dinner easier.

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Familiar ingredients with plenty of flavor.
• About 30 minutes from prep to table.
• Easy to round out with steamed broccoli.

What you’ll need

Keep everything measured and close by before you start. You’ll find the full quantities in the printable recipe card below.

• 10 oz penne
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning, divided
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¾ cup cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup Parmesan

Let’s make it

1. 01

   Get ready

   Boil pasta according to its package; reserve ½ cup water and drain.

2. 02

   Build the flavor

   Coat chicken with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning. Sauté in oil for 6–8 minutes until it reaches 165°F.

3. 03

   Bring it together

   Add bell pepper and cook for 3 minutes, then add garlic and remaining seasoning.

4. 04

   Finish cooking

   Pour in cream and chicken broth; simmer gently for 3 minutes. Take off the heat and add Parmesan.

5. 05

   Serve and enjoy

   Toss with pasta, loosening with reserved water as needed.

Make It Even Better

Taste your Cajun seasoning first; salt and heat vary by brand.

Read through the recipe and measure the ingredients before starting.

Make it your own

Use half the seasoning for a mild version and add more at the table.

What to serve with it

Steamed broccoli

Storage & reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in a shallow, covered container within 2 hours. Use within 3 days. Reheat gently until the center reaches 165°F, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.