Pin this A creamy, spicy pasta dish featuring tender Cajun-seasoned chicken, rich Velveeta cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine—comfort food with a Southern twist.
A cozy dish that brings together bold Cajun flavors and creamy cheese sauce, perfect for sharing with family on a weeknight.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine pasta
- Sauce: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 cloves garlic minced 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream 8 oz (225 g) Velveeta cheese cubed ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese ½ teaspoon black pepper ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat) Salt to taste
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped Extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente Drain and set aside reserving ½ cup pasta water
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks pat chicken breasts dry Rub both sides with Cajun seasoning
- Step 3:
- In a large skillet heat olive oil over medium-high heat Add chicken and cook 5 6 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C) Remove chicken let rest 5 minutes then slice thinly
- Step 4:
- In the same skillet reduce heat to medium Add butter and garlic sauté 1 minute until fragrant
- Step 5:
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer Add Velveeta cubes stirring often until melted and smooth
- Step 6:
- Add Parmesan cheese black pepper and cayenne pepper (if using) Stir until fully combined and creamy If sauce is too thick add reserved pasta water a little at a time
- Step 7:
- Toss cooked fettuccine in the sauce until well coated
- Step 8:
- Divide pasta among plates Top with sliced Cajun chicken Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired
Pin this My family loves gathering around this dish It always sparks great conversations and plenty of compliments
Serving Suggestions
Pairs well with a crisp green salad and a chilled Chardonnay for a complete meal
Allergen Information
Contains milk dairy wheat and chicken Those with allergies should check ingredient labels for hidden allergens
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 670 calories 32 g total fat 57 g carbohydrates 41 g protein
Pin this This dish is simple yet impressive making it perfect for any occasion
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How do I keep the chicken tender and juicy?
Pat the chicken dry and cook over medium-high heat just until golden and cooked through without overcooking to retain juiciness.
- → Can I adjust the spice level in the sauce?
Yes, modify the amount of cayenne pepper or Cajun seasoning to suit your preferred heat intensity.
- → What’s the best way to get a smooth sauce texture?
Stir the Velveeta cheese cubes into simmering cream gradually and add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
- → Which pasta works best for this dish?
Fettuccine is ideal due to its wide ribbons that hold the creamy sauce well, but other long pastas like linguine can also work.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, cook and slice the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Keep pasta separate and combine just before serving for best texture.