Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo

Indulge in the bold flavors of Spicy Cajun Chicken and Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta, a dish that combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and a creamy Cajun-spiced Alfredo sauce. This hearty meal is perfect for those who love a little heat and a lot of flavor. If you’re a fan of Cajun-inspired dishes, you’ll also enjoy my Cajun Chicken with Roasted Garlic Alfredo recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This recipe brings together the smoky richness of sausage, the tenderness of seasoned chicken, and the creamy decadence of Alfredo sauce, all infused with the vibrant spices of Cajun seasoning. It’s a one-skillet wonder that’s both comforting and exciting for your taste buds.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta

• Fettuccine is the classic choice for Alfredo dishes because its wide, flat shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully. If you don’t have fettuccine, feel free to use linguine, penne, or even homemade pasta. Don’t forget to save about a cup of pasta water before draining—it’s a secret weapon for perfect sauce consistency.

Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. Cut them into evenly sized cubes for consistent cooking. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be used instead—just adjust the cooking time. Cooked chicken, like rotisserie or shredded chicken, works too; simply season and warm it with the sausage before adding it to the dish.

Smoked Sausage

• A 13.5-ounce ring of smoked sausage (such as andouille) adds a smoky depth to the dish. If you don’t have smoked sausage, try chorizo, Polish kielbasa, or even turkey sausage for a lighter option.

Seasonings

• The chicken is seasoned with a blend of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. The Alfredo sauce gets its kick from Cajun seasoning and a touch of crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust the spice level to your liking—add more red pepper for extra heat or omit it for a milder flavor.

Why Reserve Pasta Water?

Pasta water is a game-changer for creamy sauces. It’s starchy, salty, and helps bind the sauce to the noodles, creating a silky, cohesive dish. Use it sparingly to adjust the sauce’s consistency. If you’re making other pasta dishes like Tomato Basil Pasta or Vodka Sauce, this tip applies there too!