If you’re a fan of Chili’s Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’re in for a treat! I recently tried making this dish at home, and I was amazed at how close it tasted to the restaurant version. The creamy sauce, perfectly seasoned chicken, and kick of Cajun spice all come together to create a meal loved by everyone in my family.

The best part? It’s easy to make and much cheaper than dining out. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation!

Copycat Chili's Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe — Source: sixsistersstuff

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe. Make sure to follow the tips to bring out the best flavors!

16 ounces penne pasta – Use high-quality pasta for a better texture. Cooking it al dente makes all the difference.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Fresh chicken works best; avoid frozen whenever possible for a juicier result.
4 teaspoons Cajun seasoning – Customize the heat level to your liking, but don’t skimp on the spice!
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided – Butter adds richness to the sauce; unsalted helps you control the seasoning.
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Helps create a creamy, thick sauce.
3 cups half-and-half – Use this for a lighter cream sauce. For a richer version, heavy cream works too.
½ teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning – Adds a hint of citrus that pairs beautifully with the Cajun flavors.
1 teaspoon salt – Season to taste but start light; you can always add more.
1 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground makes a noticeable difference.
¼ teaspoon garlic powder – Complements the Cajun seasoning without overpowering the dish.
2 Roma tomatoes, diced – Fresh, ripe tomatoes add a pop of color and flavor.
½ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese – Freshly shredded cheese melts better and adds a creamy, nutty flavor.

Note: This recipe makes about four servings.

Variations

Here are some creative ways to adapt the recipe to suit different dietary needs or to boost the flavor:

Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream and vegan butter.
Low-Carb Option: Swap penne for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Extra Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning.
Garlic Lovers: Replace garlic powder with fresh minced garlic.
Cheesy Twist: Mix in extra Parmesan or mozzarella for an ultra-creamy sauce.

For a sweet and spicy twist, you can also enjoy similar recipes like this Hot Honey Chicken Recipe.

Cooking Time

Making this dish is surprisingly quick! Here’s the breakdown:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

Make sure you have these tools handy:

Large pot – For boiling the pasta.
Skillet – Essential for perfectly searing the chicken.
Whisk – Makes blending the sauce smooth and lump-free.
Slotted spoon – Ideal for handling the cooked pasta without breaking it.

How to Make Chili’s Cajun Chicken Pasta?

Making this dish is easier than you think. Here’s how to bring the recipe to life:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the penne pasta in salted water until al dente, as suggested on the package. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you work on the rest.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts and Cajun seasoning in a resealable plastic bag. Shake until the chicken is evenly coated. Heat a skillet with 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, then sear the chicken on both sides until fully cooked. Set aside to rest before slicing into strips.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Melt the remaining butter in a new skillet and whisk in the flour to create a roux. Once smooth, gradually add the half-and-half, stirring constantly. Add the lemon pepper seasoning, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and starts to bubble.

Step 4: Combine Sauce and Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce and mix well, ensuring every piece is coated.

Step 5: Serve with Chicken and Garnishes

Plate the saucy pasta and top with sliced chicken. Sprinkle the diced tomatoes and shredded Parmesan on top.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

From my own experience, here are a few suggestions to elevate this dish:

Don’t skip the roux. It’s key to achieving a smooth, thick sauce.
Use fresh Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese often has anti-caking agents that affect texture.
Rest the chicken. After cooking, letting the chicken rest locks in the juices.
Season the pasta water. It should taste like the ocean! This ensures the pasta itself is flavorful.
Experiment with toppings. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or chopped parsley can add vibrant flavor.

If you’re looking for more flavorful chicken dishes, this Easy Bourbon Chicken Recipe is another must-try!

How to Serve Chili’s Cajun Chicken Pasta?

For a restaurant-style presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and arrange the chicken on top. Garnish with Parmesan, freshly chopped parsley, or even a squeeze of lemon for extra zing. Pair it with a slice of garlic bread or a side salad to round out the meal.

Nutritional Information

This dish is indulgent yet satisfying. Here’s a quick breakdown per serving:

Calories: Approximately 599
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 66g
Fat: 26g

Make Ahead and Storage

If you have leftovers or want to prepare this ahead, follow these tips:

Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: Freeze the sauce separately from the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating and serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this copycat recipe will win your heart:

Easy to Make: Simple steps make it approachable for all skill levels.
Budget-Friendly: Get restaurant-quality at home for a fraction of the cost.
Versatile: Adaptable for different diets and heat preferences.
Family-Favorite: Creamy, flavorful pasta that everyone enjoys.
Customizable: You can adjust spices and toppings to your liking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results

To ensure your dish comes out perfect, steer clear of these common pitfalls:

Overcooking the chicken. Keep an eye on it to prevent it from drying out.
Runny Sauce. Always make a roux or simmer the sauce long enough to thicken.
Using pre-grated cheese. It won’t melt as well as fresh shredded Parmesan.
Skipping the Cajun spice. The seasoning is the heart of the flavor, so don’t hold back.
Undercooked Pasta. Cooking pasta correctly ensures the sauce clings beautifully.

There you have it! This Chili’s Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also quite simple to pull off with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try, and impress your friends and family with your restaurant-worthy cooking skills! Enjoy!

If you enjoy hearty meals like this, you can also explore other chicken recipes for more inspiration.

Ash Tyrrell