Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine

If you’re craving a perfect blend of bold spices, creamy sauce, and tender chicken all tossed with fettuccine pasta, then this Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful dish that balances the smoky, spicy notes of Cajun seasoning with a luscious, cheesy cream sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The colorful bell peppers and onions add a fresh crunch and sweetness, making every bite exciting and flavorful. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, coming together in about 30 minutes, so you get all the comfort food vibes without the fuss.

Why I Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why this Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine has a special place in my recipe collection. First, it’s a one-pan wonder (mostly) with a quick cook time, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy. The Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of kick without overpowering the creamy richness of the sauce. The chicken turns out juicy and flavorful, while the fettuccine soaks up the sauce beautifully. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet balanced, perfect for those who love a little spice but also crave comfort. Plus, the freshness of parsley on top adds a lovely herby finish that brightens every forkful.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta: This wide, flat pasta holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly, making each bite satisfying and saucy.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and vegetables, olive oil adds a subtle fruity richness and helps develop a great sear on the chicken strips.
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips: Chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, absorbing the Cajun seasoning beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning: This spice blend is the heart of the dish, bringing warmth, smokiness, and a hint of heat.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, rich base of the sauce that coats every strand of fettuccine.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture, helping to balance the creaminess and keep the sauce light enough to coat the pasta without being heavy.
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and green): Adds vibrant color, crunch, and a touch of sweetness to contrast the spicy seasonings.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Provides a savory foundation and caramelizes slightly for natural sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings an aromatic punch that complements the Cajun spices perfectly.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This salty, nutty cheese melts into the sauce, enhancing the creamy texture and flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To round out the flavors and season each component appropriately.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of green for a beautiful presentation.

Tools of the Trade

• Large pot: For boiling the fettuccine pasta until al dente.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the chicken and vegetables, then simmer the creamy sauce.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring the sauce and tossing the pasta.
• Chef’s knife and cutting board: For prepping the chicken and veggies.
• Grater: To freshly grate the Parmesan cheese for optimal flavor and melting.
• Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine in Steps

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken strips with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the hot pan in a single layer and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Season

Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning if desired.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the drained fettuccine and gently toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.

If You’re Out Of…

• Cajun seasoning: Mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to create your own blend.
• Heavy cream: Use half-and-half or whole milk combined with a bit of butter, but the sauce will be less rich.
• Chicken broth: Substitute with vegetable broth or water with a pinch of bouillon.
• Bell peppers: Try using zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for a different texture and flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are great alternatives with similar melting qualities.

Steer Clear of These

Avoid overcooking the chicken, as it can become dry and tough, which takes away from the creaminess of this dish. Also, resist the urge to rush the sauce simmering process; allowing it to thicken properly is key to that luscious texture. Using low-quality pre-grated cheese can result in a grainy sauce, so fresh cheese is always best here. Lastly, be mindful of the spice level of your Cajun seasoning blend—too much cayenne can overpower the dish, so start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to taste.

Save It for Later

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine reheats wonderfully and tastes just as good the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to help loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. It also freezes well—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes it a fantastic meal prep option or a quick dinner on busy nights.

Reader Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful due to their higher fat content. Just make sure to cut them into uniform strips and cook thoroughly. They might take a minute or two longer to cook than chicken breast.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The spice level is moderate since it uses 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, which typically balances heat and flavor. However, you can adjust the amount of seasoning or omit cayenne pepper if you prefer a milder dish.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast. Keep in mind the flavor profile will be a bit different, but still delicious.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine?

The best method is to warm it gently on the stove in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce as it heats. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

Because You Liked This

• Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Sausage Penne Chicken Sausage – Another luscious pasta dish with a Cajun twist you’ll love.
• Smoky Paprika Chicken Rotini Skillet – For when you want a smoky, comforting pasta dinner with simple ingredients.
• Garlic Butter Steak And Mushroom Fettuccine – A rich, savory fettuccine recipe that pairs perfectly with a cozy night in.

Let’s Eat

There’s nothing quite like twirling creamy, spice-kissed fettuccine around your fork and savoring tender chicken with every bite. This Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine hits all the right notes: creamy, spicy, savory, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests, it’s a recipe that delivers comfort and flavor with ease. Grab a glass of your favorite beverage, set the table, and dig into this deliciously creamy Cajun-inspired pasta. Enjoy!

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