This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a bold and flavorful dish that brings the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and richness. Tender, seasoned chicken is paired with a luscious Cajun-spiced cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pasta dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in a simple, homemade meal. The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky heat, while the sun-dried tomatoes provide a hint of tangy sweetness. Combined with a rich, creamy sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for about 5–7 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the additional Cajun seasoning, sun-dried tomatoes, and paprika.
- Add the Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, then stir in the Parmesan cheese. Allow the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve and Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: It melts better into the sauce for a smoother texture.
- Control the Spice Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to your preference.
- Swap the Pasta: This dish works well with any pasta shape, from fettuccine to rigatoni.
- Make It Lighter: Substitute half-and-half or milk for a lighter sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, but for the best texture, store the pasta and sauce separately and combine when reheating.
What’s a good substitute for Cajun seasoning? You can mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme for a homemade version.
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely! Shrimp or sausage work wonderfully in this recipe.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.
Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
A Creamy and Flavorful Conclusion
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a dish that delivers bold flavors with every bite. It’s rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta is sure to be a hit!