Go Back

Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta (Inspired by Cheesecake Factory)

This Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and creamy dish featuring tender chicken seasoned with Cajun spices, combined with vibrant bell peppers, onions, and a rich Parmesan sauce. It's a perfect blend of spice and comfort, reminiscent of the beloved Cheesecake Factory classic.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 23 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pasta:

  • 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

  • Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken:

  • Season the chicken breasts on both sides with the Cajun seasoning.
  • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest. Once cooled, slice the chicken into thin strips.

Cook the Vegetables:

  • In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and red onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Make the Sauce:

  • Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine.
  • Add the grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to incorporate and let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combine Everything:

  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
  • Add the sliced chicken and butter, stirring until everything is well combined and heated through.

Serve:

  • Divide the Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta among four plates.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.