Description
Spicy Cajun Honey Butter Chicken Pasta is a savory dish combining tender chicken, fettuccine or linguine, and sautéed vegetables in a rich, creamy, honey-kissed Cajun butter sauce. The hearty pasta is tossed with juicy, seasoned chicken cubes, a blend of Parmesan, honey, and hot sauce, and finished with fresh parsley. Each bite offers a harmonious balance of spice, a touch of sweetness, and creamy indulgence, making it a perfect centerpiece for dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Season chicken cubes with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining butter to pan. Sauté onion and bell pepper until softened.
- Add garlic and remaining Cajun seasoning, cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add honey and hot sauce, mix well.
- Return chicken to pan, add pasta and toss to combine.
- Add pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use Greek yogurt. Swap chicken for shrimp, or try bell peppers of other colors. Make this dish ahead by preparing the chicken and sauce; cook pasta just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of cream. If the sauce separates, whisk in a bit more cream or water to restore smoothness. Adjust spice by varying hot sauce or Cajun seasoning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American