This creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a one-pot wonder full of bold flavor and vibrant color. With tender chicken, bow tie pasta, and sautéed peppers all tossed in a luscious Cajun-spiced cream sauce, it’s the perfect quick-fix meal for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cajun Chicken Pasta brings together the best of creamy, spicy, and savory in one easy dish. The combination of tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and bow tie pasta creates a satisfying and hearty meal. The creamy Cajun-spiced sauce packs a punch of flavor, while still being simple enough to prepare on a weeknight. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, making cleanup a breeze! Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or looking for something different from your usual pasta routine, this dish is sure to impress. Cajun Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

8 oz bow tie pasta, cooked according to package instructions
2–3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie chicken works well)
1½ cups chopped bell peppers (red, orange, and yellow preferred)
½ cup milk
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
3 oz cream cheese (light or regular)
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
⅛ teaspoon paprika
⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
⅛ teaspoon onion powder
⅛ teaspoon chili powder
1 cup chicken broth
Optional: Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare pasta according to package instructions. Set aside. Chop bell peppers and cooked chicken.
In a large skillet over medium heat, spray with nonstick spray or add ½ tablespoon oil. Sauté bell peppers for 3–4 minutes until softened.
In a blender, mix milk, flour, cream cheese, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder until smooth.
Add cooked chicken to the sautéed peppers. Lower heat and stir in the cream sauce mixture. Cook for about 1 minute until slightly thickened.
Stir in the chicken broth and bring everything together. Add cooked pasta, mix well, and simmer on low for 1–2 minutes.
Garnish with parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Spicy kick: If you like things extra spicy, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and use extra bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a vegetarian alternative.
Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based milk to make this dish dairy-free.
Add greens: Stir in some spinach or kale for extra color and nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute bow tie pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.

2. Can I use uncooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use raw chicken. Just dice it up and sauté it in the skillet until fully cooked before adding the bell peppers and sauce ingredients.

3. Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! If you want more heat, add more chili powder, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

4. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Frozen chicken can be used, but it should be thawed and fully cooked before adding to the dish. Using rotisserie chicken makes it quicker and easier, but any cooked chicken will work.

5. Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?

If you don’t have cream cheese, you can substitute it with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a slightly tangy twist. For a lighter option, you can use a lower-fat cream cheese or even ricotta cheese.

6. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute if you want to make this dish vegetarian or if you’re out of chicken broth.

7. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make the dish gluten-free, swap out the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour to thicken the sauce.

8. How do I know when the sauce is thickened?

The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when it has thickened. You can check this by dipping a spoon into the sauce and running your finger across the back—if the line stays, it’s thickened.

9. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.

10. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to help loosen up the sauce.

Conclusion

Cajun Chicken Pasta is the ultimate one-pot comfort food, combining creamy, spicy flavors with tender chicken and vibrant bell peppers. It’s a quick, easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights but indulgent enough for a special occasion. With a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce and the option to customize it to your taste, this dish will surely become a weeknight favorite. Whether you’re a spice lover or looking for a satisfying pasta dish, this recipe has something for everyone.