Spicy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine: 7 Simple Steps to Enjoy

Name: Spicy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine: 7 Simple Steps to Enjoy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb chicken breast, sliced; 2 tablespoons cajun seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

September 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my spicy cajun chicken fettuccine! This dish is a flavor explosion that brings a little taste of Louisiana right into my kitchen. The creamy sauce, combined with just the right kick from the cajun seasoning, makes it utterly irresistible. I love how the tender chicken mingles with the colorful bell peppers and onions, creating a dish that’s not just delicious but also visually stunning! Trust me when I say, it’s incredibly satisfying to twirl those fettuccine noodles around your fork, soaking up all that spicy goodness. This recipe has become a staple in my home, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when I want to impress friends with something a bit fancy yet comforting. You’re going to love how easy it is to whip up this delightful dish!

spicy cajun chicken fettuccine - detail 1

Ingredients List

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
2 tablespoons cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 bell pepper, sliced (any color you like for a pop of color!)
1 onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare Spicy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine

First, let’s get that fettuccine cooking! Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes. You want it al dente, so keep an eye on it. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
While the pasta’s cooking, grab a bowl and toss the sliced chicken with the cajun seasoning. Make sure each piece is well coated—it’s all about that flavor!
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Be patient here; you want it hot but not smoking. Add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet and cook them for about 7-10 minutes, or until they’re nicely browned and cooked through. You might want to stir them occasionally to avoid sticking. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re softened and fragrant—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Oh, the aroma is heavenly!
Now, pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it’s melted and smooth. This is where the magic happens!
Finally, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, mixing everything together. Toss in the drained fettuccine, coating it well with that creamy, spicy sauce. Serve hot, and enjoy every last bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that comes together in about 40 minutes!
The creamy, spicy sauce delivers a burst of flavor that’ll have you coming back for seconds.
With tender chicken and colorful veggies, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
Customizable! You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste—add more cajun seasoning for an extra kick!
This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for impressing family and friends at dinner parties.
It’s a one-skillet meal, making cleanup a breeze—who doesn’t love that?
Rich in protein and packed with flavor, it’s a satisfying meal that won’t leave you feeling heavy.

Tips for Success

Don’t skimp on the seasoning! When tossing your chicken with cajun seasoning, be generous! The right amount of spice sets the tone for the entire dish.
Cook your pasta just right. Aim for al dente—this means it should still have a little bite to it. The pasta will absorb some of that luscious sauce, and you don’t want it mushy!
Use a large skillet. This will give you enough space to sauté the veggies and mix everything together without making a mess. Plus, it helps everything cook evenly!
Adjust the heat! If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a little less cajun seasoning, taste as you go, and add more if you dare! You can always add, but it’s tough to take away.
Add a splash of lemon juice at the end for a zesty brightness that really elevates the dish. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
Garnish with fresh herbs. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
Serve immediately! This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot, so have your plates ready to go. The longer it sits, the less creamy and delightful it becomes.

Variations of Spicy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine

Switch up the protein: If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the chicken for shrimp or andouille sausage! Both bring their own unique flavors to the dish and pair perfectly with the cajun seasoning.
Go veggie: For a vegetarian twist, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a medley of your favorite vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or spinach. Just adjust the cooking time so everything stays perfectly tender.
Spice it up: Want more heat? Toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to really turn up the heat. Conversely, if you prefer milder flavors, you can use a mild cajun seasoning or even skip it altogether!
Herb it up: Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil for an extra layer of flavor. Just stir them in towards the end of cooking to keep their freshness intact.
Pasta swap: Don’t have fettuccine on hand? No problem! Use any pasta you have available—penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options work wonderfully.
Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like smoked gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist. The creaminess will still shine through, but the flavor profile will be delightfully different!
Make it creamy: For an ultra-rich dish, try adding a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce. It makes the sauce even thicker and creamier—so indulgent!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values you can expect from a serving of my spicy cajun chicken fettuccine. Keep in mind, these numbers can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices, but this should give you a good idea:

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 600
Total Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 60g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 30g

This dish packs a flavorful punch while still being a satisfying meal option! Enjoy your spicy cajun chicken fettuccine guilt-free, knowing you’re getting a good balance of protein and carbs to fuel your day.

FAQ Section

How do I store leftovers?
I recommend storing any leftover spicy cajun chicken fettuccine in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to let it cool down before sealing it up!

How can I adjust the spiciness?
If you’re looking to dial down the heat, start with less cajun seasoning when marinating the chicken. You can always add more to your taste as you cook. On the flip side, if you want to turn up the spice, feel free to add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce right into the creamy sauce. Taste as you go, and you’ll find your perfect balance!

Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
Absolutely! This recipe is super versatile. You can use shrimp for a seafood twist or even andouille sausage for that classic cajun flavor. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as they may vary. For a vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even chickpeas work great too!

What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick, but it’ll still be delicious! You can also try adding a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! I suggest cooking the chicken and the sauce ahead of time and then combining it with freshly cooked fettuccine when you’re ready to serve. This way, your pasta stays perfectly al dente, and you’ll have a warm dish ready to go in no time!

How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply swap out the regular fettuccine for a gluten-free pasta variety! There are plenty of great options out there, and it’ll still taste fantastic with that spicy cajun sauce.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying my spicy cajun chicken fettuccine, I love to pair it with a few delicious accompaniments that really complete the meal. Here are some of my favorite ideas:

Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette is perfect for balancing the richness of the pasta. The crunch and brightness will refresh your palate!
Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love garlic bread?
Roasted Vegetables: Try serving some roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers on the side. They add a lovely burst of color and a healthy touch to your meal!
Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw can add a nice crunch and a bit of tang that complements the spicy flavors of the fettuccine. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Cajun Cornbread: If you’re feeling adventurous, a slice of homemade cajun cornbread would be an amazing sidekick. It’s slightly sweet and pairs wonderfully with the spices in the dish.
Wine Pairing: Don’t forget about drinks! A chilled glass of white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or a light red, is a lovely way to elevate the meal even further.

With these delightful sides, your spicy cajun chicken fettuccine will shine even brighter, making it a complete and satisfying dining experience. Enjoy every bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover spicy cajun chicken fettuccine is super simple! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It should stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. I like to separate the sauce and pasta if I have the time, as it helps keep the pasta from getting too soggy!

When it comes to reheating, I recommend using a skillet on the stovetop for the best results. Just add a splash of water or a little extra cream to the pan to help revive that creamy sauce. Heat it over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. This way, the flavors come back to life without losing that delicious creaminess.

If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat it in the microwave. Place your portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel (to keep it moist), and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s hot. Just be careful not to overheat, as that can make the pasta tough!

Enjoy your leftovers just as much as the first time around—this dish is so good, you’ll want to savor every bite!

For more information on cajun cuisine, check out Louisiana Travel’s guide to Cajun Cuisine.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.