Description
This Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish combining tender chicken seasoned with Cajun spices and al dente farfalle pasta, all coated in a rich Parmesan and cream cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe brings a spicy twist to classic Alfredo.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces farfalle pasta (or your favorite type)
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 breasts), cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (more or less, to taste)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into small pieces
- 1 cup milk
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste, if needed)
Optional Add-ins
- Fresh vegetables if desired (such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Cook Chicken and Vegetables: In a large pot or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and any optional fresh vegetables you like. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is nearly cooked through.
- Make Sauce and Combine: Pour in the milk and add the softened cream cheese pieces to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to combine, ensuring the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce. Serve the dish immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can add fresh vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese significantly improves the sauce’s flavor and creaminess.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
