I have been working on perfecting the perfect healthy cajun chicken pasta recipe for a while now, plus this one is gluten-free too. Of course, it had to be husband-approved first. This is actually one of his favorite healthy dinner dishes. You can make this cajun pasta recipe with a store-bought cajun spice mix, or use my homemade cajun spice recipe below. Both are equally delicious.
This healthy 30-minute one-pot dinner idea is full of zest and flavor. There is plenty of lean protein from the chicken. A huge score for this recipe is how I replaced traditional cream with broth instead. Trust me, you won't miss it because you are adding either parmesan cheese or dairy-free parmesan cheese.
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- 💖 Why You'll Love This Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe?
- ⏰ Easy 30 Minute Meal
- 🥣 Ingredients For A Healthy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Have A Specific Food Allergy?
- 🧡 Learn How to Make a Cajun Chicken Pasta (Gluten-Free)
- 📖 Recipe
- 🧡 Learn How to Make a Homemade Cajun Seasoning Mix Recipe
- 📖 Recipe
- 💙 Substitutions
- Need to substitute an ingredient?
- 🥚 Healthy Food Swaps Guide
- ⁉️ FAQ - Common Questions
- Didn't find the answer you're looking for?
- ❤️ You Might Also Love These
- 😀 Enjoy This Healthy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe!
- 💬 Comments
💖 Why You'll Love This Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe?
- Quick Recipe - This healthy dinner recipe only takes 30 minutes to prepare.
- High in Protein - This protein packed dinner contains 32 grams of protein per serving.
- Gluten-Free Recipe - Made with all gluten-free ingredients for a tasty pasta recipe that your entire family will enjoy.
⏰ Easy 30 Minute Meal
Plus, this meal can be made in only 30 minutes. How easy is that? Clean-up will be such a breeze after eating this delicious healthy cajun chicken pasta recipe. If you want to add some fresh spinach to mix in more nutrients, add this in during step 3. I love it both ways.
🥣 Ingredients For A Healthy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
This flavorful gluten-free Cajun chicken pasta is crafted to support gut health and balanced hormones, using wholesome ingredients that fuel your body with clean energy, anti-inflammatory spices, and digestion-friendly nutrients.
- Gluten-Free Pasta - Choose your favorite gluten-free pasta made from brown rice, quinoa, or chickpeas for added fiber and plant-based protein.
- Chicken Breast - A lean source of high-quality protein that supports muscle repair, hormone balance, and satiety.
- Olive Oil - Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that promote glowing skin and reduce inflammation.
- Bell Peppers (Red, Yellow, or Green) - Loaded with vitamin C and phytonutrients that support immunity and radiant skin.
- Onion & Garlic - Natural prebiotics that help nourish healthy gut bacteria and enhance digestion.
- Cajun Seasoning - A vibrant blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and herbs that stimulates metabolism and adds bold, spicy flavor.
- Lite Coconut Milk - A creamy dairy-free base rich in MCTs that provide quick, clean energy and support gut lining integrity.
- Cherry Tomatoes - Add a burst of antioxidants like lycopene for heart and skin health.
- Spinach - This leafy green is packed with magnesium and folate, key nutrients for hormone balance and energy production.
- Sea Salt & Black Pepper - Simple seasonings that enhance flavor while providing trace minerals.
- Optional Toppings: Fresh Parsley, Dairy-Free Parmesan, or Crushed Red Pepper Flakes - Add extra nutrients, flavor, and a touch of heat without sacrificing balance.
See the recipe card for quantities.
Have A Specific Food Allergy?
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🧡 Learn How to Make a Cajun Chicken Pasta (Gluten-Free)
Learn how easy it is to make a Cajun chicken pasta dinner recipe that is also gluten-free.
📖 Recipe
Gluten-Free Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken, breast (Skinless, boneless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 ½ tablespoons cajun spice blend seasoning, homemade (See recipe below)
- 1 onion, white (Chopped)
- 1 bell pepper, red (Chopped)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (Divided)
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper, ground
- 4 cloves garlic, fresh (Minced)
- 2 whole tomatoes (Diced)
- 8 ounces pasta, gluten-free (Rotini or penne)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons parsley, fresh
- ½ cup cheese, parmesan-style (Dairy-Free)
- 1 cup broth, chicken
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to your package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and cook the onions and peppers until soft, about 5 minutes. Add in the chicken pieces and cajun seasoning.
- Brown the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes, or until no longer pink inside. Add in one cup chicken broth and tomatoes. Bring to boil. Scrape up the brown bits on the bottom of the pan to add additional depth of flavor.
- Next, reduce the heat and add in the parmesan cheese, garlic, powder, and minced garlic. Cook until the sauce starts to thicken up, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the pasta and coat with the sauce. Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Top with fresh parsley and more parmesan cheese if desired.
🌿 The Harmony Method™ Pillars Supported 🌿
Rotation | Gut-Hormone-Mood | Flavor Infusion | Mindful Meal Mapping
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. Modify as needed and enjoy.
©EatYourNutrition. Content & photos are copyright protected. I love when you share this recipe with others, but please make sure you give credit to this site. Copying, pasting, & posting entire recipes onto social media is prohibited.
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🧡 Learn How to Make a Homemade Cajun Seasoning Mix Recipe
Below you will find the recipe for my homemade Cajun seasoning mix recipe. You can use this for many other recipes besides this healthy Cajun chicken recipe.
📖 Recipe
Homemade Cajun Seasoning Mix Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon oregano, dried
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 ½ tablespoons sea salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper, ground
Instructions
- Mix these spices together. Store in a mason jar until ready to use.
🌿 The Harmony Method™ Pillars Supported 🌿
Rotation | Gut-Hormone-Mood | Flavor Infusion | Mindful Meal Mapping
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. Modify as needed and enjoy.
©EatYourNutrition. Content & photos are copyright protected. I love when you share this recipe with others, but please make sure you give credit to this site. Copying, pasting, & posting entire recipes onto social media is prohibited.
Share on FacebookLEAVE A RATING AND COMMENT
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you like this recipe.
💙 Substitutions
Here are a few modifications if you have a food sensitivity, follow a specific diet, or simply want to switch things up. This Cajun chicken pasta recipe is flexible and easy to adapt to your needs without compromising flavor or nutrition.
- Protein Substitutions - Swap chicken breast for shrimp, salmon, or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian option. Red lentils also work beautifully for a plant-based, high-protein alternative that still provides a creamy texture when simmered in the sauce.
- Pasta Substitutions - Use your favorite gluten-free pasta made from brown rice, lentils, or chickpeas. For a lower-carb or grain-free version, try zucchini noodles, hearts of palm pasta, or spaghetti squash.
- Dairy-Free Alternatives - Replace regular Parmesan or cream with dairy-free Parmesan or lite coconut milk for a creamy, gut-friendly sauce that supports digestion and hormone health.
- Spice Level Adjustments - If you're sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or omit cayenne pepper. For extra spice, add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Oil Substitutions - Olive oil can be replaced with avocado oil, coconut oil, or ghee depending on your preferred fat source and dietary needs.
- Vegetable Variations - Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or kale for an extra nutrient boost and more fiber to support gut health.
These substitutions ensure your Cajun chicken pasta stays delicious, nourishing, and aligned with your body's needs.
Need to substitute an ingredient?
Ask ChatGPT suggestions on how to substitute the particular ingredient.
🥚 Healthy Food Swaps Guide
Check out my free Healthy Food Swaps Guide for how to swap out different foods if you suffer from food allergies, sensitivities, intolerances, or simply an aversion.
⁉️ FAQ - Common Questions
Can I Make This Cajun Chicken Pasta Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Simply use lite coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream. For the cheese, choose a dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy, savory flavor that's still gut-friendly.
Is This Recipe Gluten Free?
Yes! This Cajun chicken pasta is naturally gluten-free when you use gluten-free pasta. Options like brown rice, quinoa, or chickpea pasta work great and add extra fiber and protein.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian Or Vegan?
Replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or cooked red lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and swap any dairy ingredients for coconut milk or other plant-based substitutes.
What Can I Serve With Cajun Chicken Pasta?
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or gluten-free garlic bread. It's a complete, satisfying meal that balances protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Can I Adjust The Spice Level?
Definitely! If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or skip the cayenne pepper. For more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
How Long Does Cajun Chicken Pasta Last In The Fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk or broth to revive the sauce's creamy texture.
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❤️ You Might Also Love These
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😀 Enjoy This Healthy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe!
If you make this cajun chicken pasta recipe, let me know in the comment section below.
You can also connect with me @EatYourNutrition on Instagram. I love seeing your photos. #EatYourNutrition #LauraVillanueva
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