Get ready to dive into a bowl of soul-satisfying comfort with this Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of tender chicken, smoky Andouille sausage, and a luscious, spicy cream sauce that clings perfectly to your favorite pasta. With just the right balance of heat and richness, this dish delivers bold Cajun flavors in a way that feels both indulgent and approachable. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for a hearty, flavorful meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples that come together beautifully to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role, from the creamy sauce to the spicy Cajun kick and the savory sausage that rounds it all out.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs): Tender protein that absorbs the Cajun spices perfectly while keeping the dish hearty.
- Andouille sausage (8 oz): Adds a smoky, spicy depth that elevates the overall flavor.
- Fettuccine or penne pasta (8 oz): Choose a sturdy pasta that holds the creamy sauce well.
- Cajun seasoning (2 tsp): The star spice blend that brings warmth and a little heat to the dish.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates a rich, velvety sauce that balances the spices.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Adds a nutty, salty layer of flavor and a silky texture to the sauce.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (1 cup): Enhances depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Fresh garlic, minced (3 cloves): Infuses the sauce with aromatic, savory notes that tie everything together.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken pieces and cook them until they turn a beautiful golden brown, approximately 5 minutes. This step locks in the juiciness and creates a great base flavor for the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Next, toss in the sliced Andouille sausage. Cook it along with the chicken until it’s nicely browned and thoroughly cooked. The sausage brings smoky, slightly spicy notes that layer wonderfully with the chicken.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until the kitchen fills with its irresistible aroma. Garlic is vital here—it adds that savory punch that makes the sauce so mouthwatering.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then stir in the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Let this bubble softly to marry all the flavors while thickening into a creamy, spicy sauce that clings to every morsel.
Step 5: Cook and Combine Pasta
While your sauce simmers, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it well, then fold the pasta into the sauce along with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts into the sauce, enriching it with a luscious texture and savory finish.
Step 6: Ready to Serve
Serve your Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe immediately, while warm and comforting. If you like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions makes this dish visually inviting and adds a fresh burst that cuts through the richness. A little extra grated Parmesan on top is always a crowd-pleaser.
Side Dishes
Keep your sides simple so the pasta shines. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli create a nice balance to the creamy, spicy main course.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in individual skillet dishes or even inside hollowed-out roasted bell peppers for a stunning presentation. You can also turn it into a baked casserole topped with extra cheese and breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze the pasta, but it’s best to undercook the pasta slightly before mixing it with the sauce to prevent mushiness. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much, to bring it back to that perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage instead of Andouille?
Absolutely! While Andouille adds signature smoky spice, you can substitute with kielbasa or chorizo for a similar effect, or even a milder smoked sausage if you prefer less heat.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The Cajun seasoning gives a pleasant warmth without overpowering heat. If you like it spicier, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the sauce while it simmers.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap out the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety and ensure your Cajun seasoning and sausage don’t contain any hidden gluten ingredients.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese, but note that the sauce won’t be as rich and velvety as with full heavy cream.
How long does it take to make this dish from start to finish?
From prep to plating, this Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe takes about 40 minutes total, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner that doesn’t keep you waiting.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe enough when you want a dish that feels special but comes together easily. It’s got everything: bold spices, creamy indulgence, and hearty protein that keeps everyone happy. Give it a try soon, and watch it quickly become one of your kitchen favorites!
Print
Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts and spicy Andouille sausage simmered in a rich, creamy sauce with Cajun seasoning. Combined with perfectly cooked fettuccine or penne pasta and finished with Parmesan cheese, this hearty meal comes together in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Proteins
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs), diced
- 8 oz Andouille sausage, sliced
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
Seasonings & Dairy
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Liquids & Aromatics
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
Others
- Olive oil (for cooking)
- Parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook for about 5 minutes until it is golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the sausage: Stir in the sliced Andouille sausage into the skillet with the chicken. Continue to cook until the sausage is browned and fully cooked.
- Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Create the sauce: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning, allowing the mixture to bubble gently so flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Prepare the pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly once cooked.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce and proteins. Stir well to combine, then mix in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Plate the creamy Cajun chicken and sausage pasta immediately. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and enjoy while warm.
Notes
- You can substitute Andouille sausage with smoked sausage or chorizo if unavailable.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your preferred spice level.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese ensures better flavor and smooth melting.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but sauce may be less rich.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
