When bold Cajun spices meet creamy pasta, magic happens in a single skillet. This One-Pan Creamy Sweet and Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect marriage of heat, richness, and comfort. Tender fettuccine noodles are coated in a luscious sauce made with cream, parmesan, and a hint of sweetness to balance the smoky spice of Cajun-seasoned chicken.

Perfect for weeknights but impressive enough for guests, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen—without the pile of dishes. The balance of sweet and spicy flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, and best of all, it’s all done in one pan for easy cleanup.

What Kind of Cajun Seasoning Should I Use?

Not all Cajun seasonings are created equal. Look for one that has a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme—without being overloaded with salt. You can also make your own to better control the heat level and saltiness. A homemade blend is great for adjusting the sweet and spicy notes to your liking.

Ingredients for the One-Pan Creamy Sweet and Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for slicing and seasoning. They soak up the Cajun flavor beautifully and get a golden crust when seared.

Fettuccine Pasta: Thick and flat, fettuccine holds up well to rich sauces and gives a satisfying bite.

Heavy Cream: This is the base of the creamy sauce. It provides body and richness that pairs perfectly with the heat.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds depth and saltiness to the sauce, while helping it thicken.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall sauce.

Cajun Seasoning: This is the flavor star—bringing both smoky heat and complexity to the chicken and sauce.

Honey or Brown Sugar: Just a touch to balance the spice with sweetness.

Butter: Used to sear the chicken and add richness to the sauce.

Chicken Broth: Helps cook the pasta in the same pan while adding savory depth.

Crushed Red Pepper (optional): For an extra kick if you like it really spicy.

Parsley: A fresh herb finish that brightens the dish and adds color.

How To Make the One-Pan Creamy Sweet and Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Generously coat both sides of the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sear the chicken until golden and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside to rest.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce heat slightly and add a little more butter if needed. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the pan and lift all the delicious browned bits from the bottom. Add honey or brown sugar, more Cajun seasoning, and stir until combined.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Right In

Add the uncooked fettuccine directly to the skillet. Simmer on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened (around 12-14 minutes).

Step 5: Slice and Return the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, slice the rested chicken into strips. Once the pasta is ready, return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the sauce and noodles.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Stir in grated parmesan cheese until the sauce is glossy and clings to the pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper, if using. Serve hot and enjoy every spicy, creamy bite.

Serving and Storing One-Pan Creamy Sweet and Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This pasta is best served immediately, hot and fresh from the skillet. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the fettuccine and coats each bite with flavor. Serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal.

To store leftovers, transfer them into an airtight container once cooled. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce. Freezing is not recommended, as the cream-based sauce may separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make it less spicy?

Cut down on the Cajun seasoning and omit the crushed red pepper. You can also add extra cream or a splash of milk to mellow the heat.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, linguine, or rigatoni all work well. Just adjust cooking time if needed.

Is there a dairy-free option?

You can substitute coconut cream or an unsweetened non-dairy creamer, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be sautéed with the garlic or added to the simmering pasta.

What if I only have pre-cooked chicken?

You can still use it! Just slice and heat the chicken in the pan with the sauce before serving.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but make sure your skillet is large enough to handle the volume. You might need to extend the cooking time a bit.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this One-Pan Creamy Sweet and Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta, you might also enjoy these creamy, comforting, or boldly flavored pasta dinners:

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a cozy one-dish dinner.
Red Pepper Rigatoni: A Creamy Bold Pasta Delight if you crave a bold peppery cream sauce.
Creamy and Easy Egg Custard Pie for a comforting finish to your meal.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a creamy twist on Philly favorite.
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta if you love creamy pasta with a savory beef kick.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it anytime:
Life with Jam Pinterest Recipes

Let me know how yours turned out in the comments! Did you use honey or brown sugar? Add extra garlic or spice it up even more?

I love hearing your twists on my recipes—questions are always welcome. Let’s keep making dinner delicious together.

One-Pan Creamy Sweet and Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This One-Pan Creamy Sweet and Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta delivers bold Cajun flavor in a luscious cream sauce—all made in one skillet. It’s spicy, sweet, and incredibly satisfying for any dinner night.

Instructions

1. Generously season chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning on both sides. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sear chicken until fully cooked and golden, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and let rest.

2. In the same skillet, add more butter if needed. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in honey (or brown sugar) and more Cajun seasoning. Mix to combine.

4. Add uncooked fettuccine pasta. Simmer over medium heat for 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and sauce thickens.

5. Slice rested chicken into strips and return to the pan. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.

6. Garnish with parsley and crushed red pepper if desired. Serve hot.