If you’re craving a dish that brings bold flavors and a creamy texture together in perfect harmony, look no further than Spicy Cajun Chicken Penne. This vibrant pasta recipe combines tender chicken breast seasoned with zesty Cajun spices, sautéed peppers and onions, and a luscious creamy tomato sauce that clings beautifully to every bite of penne pasta. It’s a satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal dinner for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend feast. The spicy kick from the Cajun seasoning adds just enough heat without overpowering the dish, inviting you to savor every mouthful. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking to spice up your dinner rotation, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Reasons to Love Spicy Cajun Chicken Penne

There are so many reasons to fall in love with Spicy Cajun Chicken Penne. First, it’s a complete meal in one pot, combining protein, veggies, and carbs effortlessly. The Cajun seasoning provides a smoky, spicy depth that transforms simple chicken and pasta into something extraordinary. The creamy sauce made with heavy cream and diced tomatoes creates a luscious texture that’s both comforting and indulgent. Plus, this recipe is incredibly versatile—feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the heat level to suit your taste. It’s also a fantastic way to impress guests or treat your family to a restaurant-quality meal at home. And because it uses straightforward ingredients and requires minimal fuss, it’s accessible to cooks of all skill levels.

What to Buy

8 oz penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy Cajun sauce.
1 lb chicken breast, diced: Tender and lean, perfect for soaking up the spicy seasoning.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend delivering that iconic Cajun flavor.
1 bell pepper, chopped: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color. Red or green both work great.
1 onion, chopped: For a savory, aromatic base.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of flavor and aroma.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Provides acidity and tomato goodness without too much liquid.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, silky sauce that ties everything together.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbal finish.

Essential Tools for Success

Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta perfectly al dente.
Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the chicken and vegetables evenly and develop flavor.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce and scraping up any browned bits.
Knife and cutting board: To dice chicken and chop vegetables safely and efficiently.
Colander: For draining pasta when it’s ready.
Measuring spoons and cups: To ensure accurate seasoning and cream measurements.

Method: Spicy Cajun Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the diced chicken breast with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, making sure not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Add the drained diced tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Add salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy Cajun sauce. Add the drained penne pasta and gently mix everything together until the pasta is well coated and heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately with your favorite side or a simple green salad.

For a slightly different twist, you might also enjoy the Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Sausage Penne Chicken Sausage recipe, which brings a delightful surf and turf element to the table. Or try the Smoky Paprika Chicken Rotini Skillet for a smoky flavor profile that complements the Cajun spices beautifully.

What to Use Instead

Chicken thighs: For a juicier and more flavorful alternative to chicken breast.
Half-and-half or whole milk: Can substitute the heavy cream for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
Green or yellow bell peppers: If you prefer a milder pepper flavor.
Gluten-free pasta: For those with gluten sensitivities, penne made from rice or corn works well.
Additional Cajun spices: Feel free to add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or dried thyme for more complexity.

Testing Timeline

Initial test to balance heat level and seasoning, ensuring the Cajun spice is prominent but not overpowering.
Adjust cream quantity to achieve the ideal sauce consistency that coats the pasta without being runny.
Tested cooking times for chicken and vegetables to guarantee tenderness and proper caramelization.
Multiple pasta brands tested to confirm best al dente texture with this sauce.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce’s creaminess. While this dish can be frozen, the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly. If freezing, cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even plant-based protein alternatives to maintain the heartiness of the dish.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends largely on the Cajun seasoning you use. You can adjust the spice by selecting a milder or hotter blend and controlling the amount of seasoning you add.

What type of Cajun seasoning should I buy?

Look for a blend that includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and herbs like oregano or thyme. Avoid blends with added salt if you want more control over seasoning.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Penne works great because its ridges hold the sauce well, but other shapes like rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli make excellent alternatives.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

Final Bite

With its rich, creamy sauce and irresistible spicy kick, Spicy Cajun Chicken Penne is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and bold flavors, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish delivers satisfying warmth and zest in every forkful. Enjoy the bright pops of fresh parsley, the tender chicken infused with Cajun magic, and the hearty pasta that ties it all together. This recipe invites you to explore Cajun flavors in a simple, approachable way—perfect for any night of the week.

Share on Pinterest