Creamy Cajun Chicken & Spinach Shells in Herb Butter Cream
Indulge in this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Spinach a rich and flavorful comfort dish featuring tender Cajun-seasoned chicken, buttery herb cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta shells. This easy chicken pasta recipe combines bold Southern spices with creamy, cheesy goodness ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients:
For the Cajun Chicken
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus extra for garnish)
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta
12 oz medium pasta shells
3 cups fresh spinach
For the Creamy Herb Butter Sauce
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
Salt & pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
Season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, then whisk until combined. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add fresh spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted. Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing everything in the creamy Cajun butter sauce until well coated.
Add the cooked pasta shells and toss to coat evenly. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water for a silky, restaurant-quality texture.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a pinch of Cajun seasoning for garnish. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy Cajun chicken pasta with spinach a flavorful and satisfying dinner!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
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This Creamy Cajun Chicken & Spinach Shells recipe is a flavorful, easy chicken pasta dish with tender Cajun-spiced chicken, creamy herb butter sauce, and fresh spinach. A perfect 30-minute dinner for any night!
