Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Broccoli & Bell Peppers – Bold, Comforting & Weeknight Ready

Craving a pasta dish that hits all the right notes—creamy, spicy, colorful, and satisfying? This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Broccoli & Bell Peppers brings the heat of Cajun spices, the richness of a velvety cream sauce, and the balance of fresh vegetables into one delicious skillet meal. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent, yet packs in nutrition with lean protein and vibrant produce.

Perfect for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests, this pasta is inspired by Louisiana flavors but adapted for everyday cooking. The creaminess softens the spice just enough, while broccoli and bell peppers add brightness and crunch. Every bite offers a harmony of textures and flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

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Ingredients Overview

Each element in this pasta dish plays an essential role—let’s explore how they come together to create a well-rounded, flavor-packed meal.

Chicken Breast

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and tender, soaking up the bold Cajun seasoning beautifully. You can also use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

Cajun Seasoning

A spicy, savory blend typically containing paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs. It’s the star of the dish, delivering that signature smoky kick.

Pasta (Fettuccine or Penne)

Fettuccine brings a luxurious texture, while penne or rotini holds the sauce well. Choose your favorite. You can also opt for whole wheat or gluten-free versions.

Broccoli

Adds freshness, crunch, and nutritional value. Lightly blanched or steamed broccoli complements the creamy sauce without overpowering the dish.

Bell Peppers

Sweet red and yellow bell peppers provide color, sweetness, and a pleasant bite. They balance the heat from the Cajun spice and brighten the plate.

Garlic

Essential for a flavorful base, garlic enhances the savory backbone of the sauce.

Heavy Cream

Creates the rich, velvety base for the sauce. It coats the pasta and chicken in luscious flavor while taming the Cajun heat.

Parmesan Cheese

Melts into the cream for added thickness, umami, and depth. Use freshly grated cheese for best results.

Olive Oil & Butter

Olive oil sears the chicken beautifully, while butter adds richness to the sauce and veggies.

Salt & Pepper

Used to enhance and balance the flavors, especially since Cajun seasoning often contains salt.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

This creamy Cajun chicken pasta comes together in under 45 minutes and is perfect for a weeknight family meal or an elevated dinner with friends.

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 12 oz of pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Season and Cook the Chicken

Slice 1 lb chicken breast into thin strips. Toss with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove to a plate and keep warm.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add 1 tbsp butter. Sauté 1 sliced red bell pepper, 1 sliced yellow bell pepper, and 2 cups small broccoli florets. Cook for 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 30 seconds.

4. Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce heat to medium. Add 1 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine, letting it gently simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Cajun seasoning if desired.

5. Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Toss everything together until coated and warmed through.

6. Serve Hot

Garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

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Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

This pasta recipe is easily customized to suit your preferences, spice level, or dietary needs.

Tips

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Thin slices cook quickly. Remove from heat as soon as it’s done to keep it juicy.

• Reserve pasta water: It’s full of starch and helps emulsify the sauce if it gets too thick.

• Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese can be grainy and may not melt as smoothly.

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use shrimp, sliced andouille sausage, or tofu for variety.

• Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for more color and nutrition.

• Extra Heat: Add cayenne, hot sauce, or extra Cajun spice for more intensity.

Substitutions

• Light Cream or Half & Half: Use instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce (though it won’t be quite as rich).

• Dairy-Free: Swap cream for full-fat coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the Cajun seasoning is certified gluten-free.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is bold enough for a dinner party but quick enough for a Tuesday night. Here’s how to enjoy it:

Pair With

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Garlic bread or crusty rolls

• Roasted asparagus or zucchini

Occasions

• Family dinners

• Date night in

• Dinner with guests (easy to double the recipe)

• Meal prep (keeps well for 3–4 days)

Serve it straight from the skillet or plate it for a restaurant-style presentation. It’s always a hit.

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Nutritional & Health Notes

While rich and creamy, this dish offers a balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables that can be easily adjusted for dietary goals.

Protein-Rich

Chicken provides lean, complete protein that supports muscle repair and satiety.

Vegetable-Packed

Broccoli and bell peppers contribute fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins like C and K. They lighten up the cream sauce and add freshness.

Customize Your Cream

Want to lighten it up? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or opt for reduced-fat dairy.

Carb-Conscious Option

Serve over spiralized zucchini or low-carb pasta alternatives like chickpea or lentil pasta to reduce the carb load.

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FAQ

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken?

Yes. Simply toss the shredded or chopped chicken with Cajun seasoning and warm it in the sauce before serving. You’ll save time and still enjoy great flavor.

2. How spicy is this dish?

It has a medium kick. To reduce heat, use a mild Cajun blend or reduce the quantity. You can also add cream or cheese to mellow out the spice.

3. Can I make this ahead?

Yes. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

4. What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Fettuccine, penne, or rotini work best. They hold onto the sauce and chicken well without getting soggy.

5. Can I freeze it?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers. The cream sauce may separate slightly when thawed, so stir well when reheating.

6. Is this dish kid-friendly?

Most kids enjoy the creamy texture and chicken, but you may want to reduce the Cajun seasoning for younger palates.

7. Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Skip the chicken and add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or even chickpeas for protein.

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