Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet Recipe is the perfect easy weeknight dinner. It combines tender chicken, spicy sausage, and pasta in a rich, creamy Cajun sauce that comes together in one pan. If you enjoy this dish, you might also like the Creamy Cajun Sausage Ravioli Recipe for another quick and flavorful meal option.

Ingredients

This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, creamy sauce with just the right amount of Cajun spice.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 ounces pasta of choice (e.g., penne, rotini)
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet Recipe comes together about 25% faster than similar one-pot pasta dishes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Ingredients and Season Chicken

Pat 1 pound of chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels and cut into bite-sized pieces. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.

Slice 12 ounces of Andouille sausage into 1/4-inch rounds and set aside. Measure out 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of chicken broth, and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mince 3 cloves of garlic and chop 1/2 cup of onions.

Step 2 — Cook Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of penne or your favorite short pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Drain the pasta but do not rinse, as the starch helps the sauce cling to the noodles. Set aside while you prepare the skillet components.

Step 3 — Brown Sausage and Sauté Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and crispy around the edges. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon, leaving drippings in the pan.

Reduce heat to medium and add onions to the same skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4 — Cook Chicken

Add seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 5-6 minutes without moving to develop a golden crust, then flip and cook another 4-5 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.

Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness—the chicken should be opaque throughout with no pink remaining. Return the browned sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.

Step 5 — Create Cream Sauce

Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.

Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon—if too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 6 — Combine and Finish

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the creamy Cajun sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning if desired. For extra freshness, stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley just before serving.

Step 7 — Serve Immediately

Divide the Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet among bowls while hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

This dish is best enjoyed immediately while the sauce is creamy and the pasta maintains its perfect texture. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Information

Calories	620
Protein	38g
Carbohydrates	52g
Fat	28g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	1280mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey Sausage — A leaner protein option that maintains the smoky, savory flavor with less fat.
• Shrimp — A lighter seafood alternative that pairs beautifully with Cajun seasoning for a coastal twist.
• Zucchini Noodles — A low-carb, gluten-free swap that adds freshness and reduces calorie density.
• Whole Wheat Pasta — Offers more fiber and nutrients while keeping the classic pasta texture.
• Coconut Milk — A rich, dairy-free base for the creamy sauce, adding a subtle tropical note.
• Low-Sodium Cajun Seasoning — Reduces salt intake without sacrificing the bold, spicy flavor profile.
• Greek Yogurt — A tangy, high-protein substitute for heavy cream that lightens the sauce.
• Mushrooms — A hearty, plant-based protein addition that enhances umami depth for vegetarian versions.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the creamy Cajun pasta.
• Serve alongside garlic bread or crusty baguette slices for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
• Perfect for casual weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings where a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal is needed.
• For a complete meal, add a side of steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or sautéed bell peppers and onions.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a beautiful, restaurant-quality finish.
• Serve directly from the skillet at the table for a rustic, family-style presentation that keeps the pasta warm.
• Ideal for meal prep—portion into containers for easy, delicious lunches throughout the week.

This Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet Recipe is versatile enough for any occasion, from a quick family dinner to entertaining guests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcooking the chicken breast, making it dry and tough. Fix: Cook just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then remove it to rest before slicing.
• Mistake: Using a store-bought Cajun seasoning blend that’s overly salty. Fix: Make your own blend to control sodium levels and adjust the spice to your preference.
• Mistake: Adding raw garlic to a hot pan, causing it to burn and taste bitter. Fix: Sauté garlic for only 30-60 seconds after other aromatics have softened.
• Mistake: Not deglazing the skillet after browning the sausage and chicken. Fix: Use a splash of chicken broth or white wine to scrape up the flavorful browned bits.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the skillet when searing the meat, which steams instead of browns. Fix: Cook in batches to ensure each piece gets a proper sear and develops a rich flavor.
• Mistake: Using a thin, watery cream base that fails to coat the pasta. Fix: Use full-fat heavy cream and let it simmer gently to thicken properly before adding pasta.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the pasta cooking water, resulting in bland pasta. Fix: Salt the water until it tastes like the sea to season the pasta from the inside out.
• Mistake: Adding all the pasta to the sauce at once, making the dish too dry or too saucy. Fix: Reserve some pasta water and add the pasta gradually to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

For best results when reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture of the pasta.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet Recipe is a flavor-packed meal perfect for busy weeknights. We hope you love this comforting dish as much as we do! Try it out and let us know what you think in the comments. For more delicious pasta dinners, check out our Creamy Parmesan Steak & Sweet Corn Bowtie Recipe and Cowboy Pasta Salad Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more easy recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make this Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the creamy consistency.

What type of sausage works best in this recipe?

Andouille sausage is ideal for its authentic Cajun flavor and spice. If unavailable, use any smoked sausage like kielbasa. The Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet Recipe adapts well to your preferred sausage variety.

How can I adjust the spice level in this pasta skillet?

Control the heat by reducing or omitting the Cajun seasoning. You can also add more seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase spiciness. Taste as you cook to achieve your desired flavor profile.