Creamy Cajun Chicken & Corn Pasta
If you’re craving a dish that combines bold flavors with rich, comforting creaminess, then this Creamy Cajun Chicken & Corn Pasta is exactly what you need. With tender, perfectly seasoned chicken, sweet bursts of corn, and a luscious, spicy sauce, this recipe is a weeknight winner that feels like a special occasion. It’s quick to come together, requires simple ingredients, and offers that satisfying, soul-warming meal we all love.
Why I Love This Recipe
What makes this Creamy Cajun Chicken & Corn Pasta stand out is its perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and texture. The Cajun seasoning brings a smoky kick without overpowering the dish, while the corn adds a bit of natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken. Plus, the penne pasta holds onto the sauce so well, ensuring every bite is rich and flavorful. It’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t sacrifice taste, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something both quick and impressive.
What’s in the Bowl
- 8 ounces of penne pasta – The perfect shape to trap the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing the chicken to golden perfection.
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced – Tender and juicy, the heart of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning – Adds smoky, spicy flavor to the chicken.
- 1 cup corn kernels – Fresh, frozen, or canned, they add a sweet crunch.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates that dreamy, luscious sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth – Builds depth and balances the creaminess.
- 1 cup diced bell peppers – Bright colors and a subtle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Enhances savory notes.
- Salt and pepper to taste – To season everything perfectly.
- Chopped parsley for garnish – Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
Tools of the Trade
- Large pot – To cook your penne pasta evenly.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – For searing chicken and simmering the sauce.
- Colander – To drain the pasta.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce without scratching your pans.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To get your seasoning and liquids just right.
Creamy Cajun Chicken & Corn Pasta in Steps
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the diced chicken breast with the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Bell Peppers and Corn
In the same skillet, add the diced bell peppers and corn kernels. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the creamy sauce. Add the drained penne pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and heated through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the dish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately for a comforting, flavorful meal.
In-Season Swaps
- Swap bell peppers for zucchini or asparagus during spring for a fresh twist.
- Use fresh corn when in season for the sweetest flavor, or substitute with roasted corn for a smoky note.
- Try swapping chicken breast with diced turkey breast for a leaner protein option.
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
Pro Perspective
To really amp up the flavor, try toasting your Cajun seasoning in the skillet before adding the chicken. This releases the aromatic oils and deepens the spice profile. Also, don’t overcook your chicken; it should remain juicy and tender to complement the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for a more vibrant spice.
- Adding a splash of lemon juice at the end can brighten the entire dish and balance the richness.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider finishing with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
This Creamy Cajun Chicken & Corn Pasta stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Place leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Freezing is possible but slightly affects texture due to the cream. To freeze, cool completely then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Common Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal because of its shape and texture, other short pastas like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle work beautifully in this Creamy Cajun Chicken & Corn Pasta.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt. Keep in mind the sauce may be less rich but still delicious. Also, using skinless chicken breast keeps the protein lean.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding some smoked paprika will help retain that smoky Cajun flavor.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand?
Mix together equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, and thyme to create a quick Cajun blend. Adjust the cayenne for desired heat.
Similar Recipes
- Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne – A cheesy baked pasta dish that’s equally comforting and rich.
- Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Penne – A flavorful penne pasta with roasted peppers and tangy goat cheese.
Ready, Set, Cook
This Creamy Cajun Chicken & Corn Pasta is a perfect marriage of spicy, sweet, and creamy flavors that come together effortlessly. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. So grab your skillet, boil that pasta, and get ready to dive into a bowl of pure comfort. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley — it adds that final touch of freshness you’ll love. Enjoy!
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Creamy Cajun Chicken & Corn Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss diced chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté diced bell peppers and corn kernels for 3-4 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stir to combine. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Return cooked chicken to skillet and coat with sauce. Add drained pasta and toss until evenly coated and heated through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh corn in season for best sweetness or roasted corn for smoky flavor.
- Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Toast Cajun seasoning in skillet before cooking chicken to deepen flavor.
- Reheat leftovers gently with a splash of broth or cream to loosen sauce.
- Swap bell peppers with zucchini or asparagus for seasonal variation.
