📝 Introduction
If you love bold flavors, rich cream sauces, and cheesy goodness, this Cheesy Cajun Alfredo Chicken Pasta is your next go-to meal. This dish brings together the warmth of Cajun spices with the comfort of creamy Alfredo sauce and a generous helping of cheese. The seasoned chicken adds protein and texture, while the pasta ties it all together for a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal at home.
🧄 Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) fettuccine or penne pasta
- Water & salt (for boiling)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk (optional, for thinning the sauce)
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra grated cheese
- A squeeze of lemon (to brighten the flavor)
👨🍳 Instructions & Method
1. Prep & Cook the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and coat both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 4–5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F / 74°C).
- Remove from skillet, let rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water (optional for sauce thinning).
3. Make the Cheesy Cajun Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (don’t burn it!).
- Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.
- Add Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
- Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
4. Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
- Mix in the sliced chicken or lay it on top.
- Let it cook together for another 1–2 minutes so the flavors marry.
5. Garnish & Serve:
- Sprinkle with parsley, extra cheese, and a light squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.
🍽️ Tips & Variations
- Protein Swap: Try shrimp or sausage instead of chicken.
- Veggie Boost: Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Make it spicier: Add extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your seasonings are GF.
❤️ Why You’ll Love It
- Rich, creamy, and cheesy
- Packed with Cajun flavor and a hint of heat
- Great for weeknight dinners or impressing guests
- Easily customizable to your taste